Virat Kohli Smashes 52nd ODI Century, Sets New Record at Ranchi
Virat Kohli achieved another significant milestone in his illustrious ODI career, by hitting his 52nd ODI hundred on Sunday during the first ODI between India and South Africa played at Ranchi.
New Delhi (India) November 30: Once again, Kohli added to his already impressive record at the Ranchi ground with an explosive performance on November 30 against South Africa. The veteran batsman made use of 102 balls, striking 7 fours and 5 sixes throughout his innings. His innings mixed composure, calculation and his signature passion for winning.
Records Third ODI Hundred at Ranchi Ground
It was his third ODI hundred at Ranchi ground, and it remains his best spot to play at it for the remainder of the season.
As Kohli sang his thanks in celebration, he had to stop playing when the pitch invader ran onto the field and the security guards immediately intervened. The young fan who interrupted the match was to be held off the field by a young fan, but Kohli kissed his wedding ring to mark his achievement.
Dominant Batting Display
It was a classic performance of Kohli, who was so composed, so much in a position to play cover drives and snatch the strike. He was batting alongside Rohit Sharma, playing at number three after the first-wicket partnership had ended when Yashasvi Jaiswal was picked off early. Kohli, however, paved the way for an enormous score for the team. Rohit scored 57 in 50 balls, five fours and three sixes and was named among the best players in the history of ODIs.
Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for Most ODI Hundreds
With this century, Kohli has further established his record for the most ODI hundreds by any men's ODI player, which now stands at 52, with the previous record held by the great Sachin Tendulkar (49). In addition, Kohli, on the way to achieving his 52nd ODI hundred, has also set a new record for the most hundreds in One Day Internationals for a single player.
Until Virat Kohli scored a century in Ranchi, Sachin Tendulkar had held the record jointly for most Test centuries with Kohli at 51 centuries.
Additionally, Kohli's century is his 83rd international century across all formats of cricket. He is second only to Tendulkar, who has 100 international centuries. This shows that as a 36-year-old, he is determined to win the ultimate game in cricket.
Celebrations and Standing Ovation from Cricket Legends
After his wicket, Kohli raised his bat and acknowledged the support from the crowd in Ranchi. The cameras then cut to the stands behind the boundary, where there were fans celebrating his achievements, and many other famous cricketers such as Gautam Gambhir, Sitanshu Kotak, Morne Morkel and Ryan ten Doeschate were on the edge of their seats cheering him on with a standing ovation. The broadcasters also showed Gambhir hugging Kohli as he congratulated him for achieving the record.
Aadrika Tayal