Pune
Virat Kohli’s remarkable 48th ODI century, supported by KL Rahul’s strategic play, led India to victory over Bangladesh and ignited hopes of breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s all-time record of 49 centuries in the format during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India. Kohli’s century marked his third at ICC Cricket World Cups and the 48th of his ODI career. However, it appeared uncertain that he would reach the coveted three-figure mark when India needed 19 runs to win, and Kohli himself was 19 runs short of the milestone. KL Rahul, Kohli’s partner at the crease, revealed after the match that it was his idea to abstain from taking easy singles to enable Kohli to maintain strike and enhance his chances of reaching the century. Rahul said, He was confused, he said it will not look too nice, not to take the single, it’s still a World Cup, and it’s still a big stage. ‘I don’t want to look like I am just trying to get the milestone.’ Rahul encouraged Kohli to go for the century, stating that with the comfortable situation of the game, it was a worthwhile pursuit. In the end, Kohli reached his century with a maximum that also sealed India’s victory. In reaching his century, Kohli also achieved the distinction of becoming the fastest batter in the history of men’s international cricket to score 26,000 runs. He surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s previous record but did so in 33 fewer innings. Kohli’s remarkable feat has raised hopes that he might break Tendulkar’s record of 49 centuries during the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in India.
