ODI World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli celebrates 50th ODI ton vigorously, Anushka Sharma showers flying kisses

Virat Kohli scored his 50th century during India's semifinal clash of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup against New Zealand at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, in Mumbai, on November 15. Anushka Sharma was seen giving a flying kiss to Kohli after the former India captain added a new feather to his cap. 

With this century, Kohli becomes the first batter in the world to score 50 centuries in the ODI format. He broke legendary Indian batter Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most ODI hundreds of all-time (49). Notably, this was the 35-year-old's third ton in the ongoing competition.

In terms of the game, India opted to bat first after winning the toss in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 semifinal. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill produced a flying start in the first innings and managed to create a 50-plus run stand. Tim Southee, on the other hand, broke the partnership as he dismissed Rohit for 47 runs. 

Centuries from Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer led India to mammoth total

Thereafter, Shubman Gill scored a half-century and managed to produce another crucial partnership with Virat Kohli. The young opener had to retire hurt at 79 after suffering a groin injury. The hosts thoroughly dominated the New Zealand bowling attack, with centuries from Kohli and Shreyas Iyer propelling the team to an imposing total of 397/4. 

Kohli amassed 117 off 113 deliveries, including nine boundaries and two maximums. Meanwhile, Iyer smashed his second consecutive century in the ongoing tournament, smashing 105 off just 70 balls. His knock was studded with four fours and eight sixes. Furthermore, Gill, who had to leave the field due to injury, made a comeback in the final over.

For New Zealand, Tim Southee claimed a three-wicket haul within his full quota. Southee, unfortunately, found himself on the wrong side of statistics, giving away 100 runs. Meanwhile, Trent Boult picked up one wicket for 86 runs.

Also Check: List of Virat Kohli international & IPL centuries