Kohli’s magnificent innings of 101 runs off 121 balls, embellished with 10 boundaries, significantly propelled India to a formidable total of 326/5 while batting first against a team that was considered one of the top contenders in the tournament.Subsequently, South Africa succumbed to a dismal total of 83 runs in just 27.1 overs.
India’s victory by a staggering 243-run margin marked their eighth consecutive win, with Kohli leading the charge, amassing a total of 543 runs in the tournament at an impressive average of 108.60, including two centuries and four half-centuries.
The social media platform ‘X’ formerly Twitter set abuzz with heartfelt tributes to Kohli.
“Legacy cemented: Century No 49 on his 35th birthday for Virat Kohli to draw level with the great Sachin Tendulkar. Two greats of the game.”
“Well played Virat. It took me 365 days to go from 49 to 50 earlier this year. I hope you go from 49 to 50 and break my record in the next few days. Congratulations!!”
“Happy birthday to the heartbeat of the nation, who has redefined the meaning of fitness, batting, and chasing big scores. Truly destined to go down as one of the all-time greats. #GOAT #ViratKohli.”
“Got a feeling @imVkohli will score a 100 on his bday !! #indiavssa #WorldCup2023 (sic).”
“49th odi ton just like a WoW . Congratulations @imVkohli (sic).”
“Congratulations Virat @imVkohli on smashing 49th ODI century on your birthday. Keep making #India proud!.”
“What an incredible performance by Team India. Great start by Rohit, wonderful contribution from Shreyas Iyer and #ViratKohli on his birthday giving a great gift to all his admirers.
“A great day to reach his 49th ODI 100. And then the Indian bowlers led by Ravindra Jadeja were simply too good for the South Africans. Congratulations on a great day #INDvsSA (sic).”
“Top-notch batting and brilliant bowling performance from team India. A memorable achievement by @imVkohli on his birthday.”
“Great win for Team India. Was a masterclass from #KingKohli on a challenging wicket. And the Indian bowlers are simply outstanding. Jadeja was almost unplayable and 8 in 8, 3 more to go. Come on Team India #INDvsSA.”
“From @ImRo45’s aggressive start to @imVkohli’s composed 49th ODI ton, from @imjadeja’s cameo with the bat to his magical spell with the ball, it was a magnificent show of skills and consistency from Team India. Complete domination!”
“Happy Birthday @imVkohli. Wishing you an incredible year ahead. And congratulations on 49th century Your relentless determination and unwavering commitment to the game are truly inspirational. May success, joy, and good health be your constant companions on this journey. Keep smashing on the field.”
“Wow. 49 × 100. One more to go.”
