Watch: "Why would I congratulate" Kusal Mendis' strange reply to journalist when asked about Kohli's record-equalling 49th ODI ton

Virat Kohli scored 49th ODI century against South Africa in the ODI World Cup 2023 at the Eden gardens.

Watch: "Why would I congratulate" Kusal Mendis' strange reply to journalist when asked about  Kohli's record-equalling 49th ODI ton

On November 4, India met South Africa at the renowned Eden Gardens. At the toss, Rohit Sharma declared his intention to bat first. Virat Kohli, who was attaining his 35th birthday, tied Sachin Tendulkar's 49 ODI centuries with a mesmerizing century propelled by perseverance.

A journalist inquired of Kusal Mendis regarding the record-equalling century scored by Virat Kohli during a pre-match press conference preceding Sri Lanka's pivotal match against Bangladesh. The Sri Lankan captain responded candidly, appearing more concerned about the country's performance in the ongoing ODI World Cup.

Watch: Kusal Mendis response when asked about his 49th ODI century

Although Sri Lanka have struggled thus far in the World Cup, they have not been eliminated from contention. Their pursuit of a semi-final berth has been marked by numerous setbacks, including catastrophic performances and injury complications. Due to a groin injury, Wanindy Hasaranga was ruled out prior to the commencement of the competition. Subsequently, a muscle injury to the right quadriceps ruled Dasun Shanaka out of the tournament, and Kusal Mendis was appointed captain.

A rout at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi put Sri Lanka's campaign in a troublesome downward spiral. Despite promising performances by Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama (both with hundreds), Mohammad Rizwan's magnificent century overshadowed the proceedings.

A frantic Australian side delivered their third consecutive loss to them prior to their first victory against the Netherlands. They defeated a struggling England in Pune with a magnificent performance before succumbing to the high-flying Afghanistan. Against India, everything became a nightmare when Mohammed Shami caught a fifer.On Monday, November 6, in Delhi, Sri Lanka will face Bangladesh in an attempt to salvage their World Cup campaign.