Virat Kohli made cricket history, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record by hitting his 50th ODI century in the ICC World Cup 2023’s first semi-final against New Zealand at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
At 35, Kohli achieved this milestone in his 291st match (279th innings), much quicker than Tendulkar, who took 452 innings to score 49 centuries. The unforgettable moment was marked by Kohli bowing down to Tendulkar, who cheered for him from the stands.
Kohli’s tally now stands at 80 international centuries — 50 in ODIs, 29 in Tests, and one in T20Is. His remarkable performance in the crucial game captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The historic 50th century came in the 42nd over, as Kohli, facing Lockie Ferguson, sent the ball towards deep back square leg, sprinting for two runs and etching his name in the records.
The list of ODI centurions showcases Rohit Sharma in third place with 31 centuries in 253 innings, followed by Ricky Ponting (30 in 365 innings) and Sanath Jayasuriya (28 in 433 innings).
Kohli is also leading the run chart in the World Cup, accumulating 709 runs at a phenomenal average of 118.16, with three centuries and five half-centuries.
As of reporting, India finished their innings, setting a daunting 398-run target for Kane Williamson’s team, aiming for back-to-back World Cup finals appearances.
Kohli dominated the Indian innings, scoring 117 off 113 balls, while Shreyas Iyer’s explosive knock of 105 runs — featuring 12 boundaries, four fours, and eight sixes — added to the team’s imposing total. Shubman Gill retired hurt after contributing 79 runs due to cramps.
