Watch: Virat Kohli Turns Emotional After Equaling ‘Hero’ Sachin Tendulkar’s 49 ODI Century Records
Virat Kohli equalled Sachin Tendulkar’s 49 ODI centuries by hitting a ton against the South Africa at the Eden Gardens on his 35th birthday.
Crickate
Batting maestro Virat Kohli of the India National Cricket Team was overcome with emotion after tying his 'idol' Sachin Tendulkar's record for centuries in One Day International (ODI) cricket.
On his 35th birthday, Sunday, November 5, Kohli eventually matched Tendulkar's 49 ODI centuries by hitting a century against the South Africa National Cricket Team at the renowned Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Kohli demonstrated extraordinary batting prowess and performed exceptionally well on a challenging batting surface. At the age of 101, he remained unblemished in leading India to an enormous total of 326/5.
During his remarks at the post-match presentation ceremony, Kohli, who was named the Player of the Match, described tying Tendulkar's record as an emotive and momentous occasion.
"I cannot take in everything at the moment (in response to Sachin's message); tying my hero's record is an accomplishment in and of itself. With regard to batting, he is impeccable. This moment evokes strong emotions within me. I am certain of my origin and the dates on which I first saw him on television. Merely receiving his appreciation means everything to me."
There was an inspiration to do well: Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli added that he was extremely motivated to perform well against the Proteas and that this match was not merely another one. What he stated was:
"Playing arguably the most formidable opponent of the tournament was a momentous occasion." A sense of motivation existed to perform admirably. It becomes more special because it occurred on my birthday, and the individuals involved enhanced that specialness for me. I did indeed awaken filled with the anticipation that today would not be an ordinary game.
Virat Kohli further stated that the batting conditions were more challenging than they appeared from the outside. Additionally, he discussed the message he received from the locker room throughout his innings. What he stated was:
"Att least in part, individuals external to the sport perceive it somewhat differently. When the openers get off to a strong start, the atmosphere becomes electric, and all players are compelled to perform at their peak. However, as the ball aged, the conditions decelerated considerably.
"The message was unambiguous: continue to bat in my vicinity. I was delighted in that regard. As soon as we surpassed 315, we considered ourselves to be above par. It is not phases that I am relishing playing cricket all over again; that is what matters most to me. Simply put, I am grateful that God has granted me such pleasure. "Overall, I'm just grateful to be able to continue doing what I've been doing for so many years."
