Kohli’s humble side was witnessed after India completed a 243-run rout of South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata as the former India skipper was spotted clicking pictures with the groundstaff in a beautiful gesture.
Kohli made his 35th birthday memorable by scoring 49th ODI century that puts him level with Sachin Tendulkar’s record as his 101 not out was the centerpiece of India’s 326-5.
Kohli, now averaging more than 108 in the World Cup, said during the innings break: “Every opportunity to play for India is a big one, to be able to ton up on my birthday is the stuff of dreams. It is something you dream about as a child.”
India, riding high on their previous success of dismissing Sri Lanka for a mere 55 runs, the lowest total recorded by any Test side in a World Cup, continued their impressive performance with another remarkable collapse, this time against South Africa, who were bowled out for just 83 runs.
Cricket World Cup 2023: India crush South Africa by 243 runs, extend winning streak to eight matches in ODI World Cup
This marked the second-lowest ODI total for the Proteas, with their lowest being 69 runs against Australia in Sydney in 1993, and it stands as their lowest total in a World Cup.
Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja did the bulk of the damage with 5-33, with India now assured of finishing the pool phase in top spot.
