PM Narendra Modi congratulates Virat Kohli as he becomes first ever batsman to hit 50 ODI centuries

Virat Kohli became the first ever batsman to hit 50 centuries in ODI cricket.

Virat Kohli has stolen the limelight in the semi-final encounter against New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium with his record-breaking 50th ODI century. Virat Kohli has broken multiple batting records of Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and became the batter with the most ODI centuries as well as the most runs scored in a World Cup edition. Virat Kohli played a magnificent knock of 117 runs in 113 balls against the Kiwis. 

The entire Wankhede Stadium and the fans glued to their televisions cheered for Virat’s splendid performance in Mumbai. Virat Kohli smashed 9 fours and 2 sixes in his innings and added two crucial partnerships for his team in a crucial game. Kohli added 93 runs along with Shubman Gill and then went on to add 163 runs along with Shreyas Iyer. Right-hand batter Iyer also smashed a century in the game. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Virat Kohli. 

PM Modi congratulates Virat Kohli

PM Narendra Modi tweeted after Virat’s special achievement in the ODI cricket and wrote, “Today, Virat Kohli has not just scored his 50th ODI century but has also exemplified the spirit of excellence and perseverance that defines the best of sportsmanship. This remarkable milestone is a testament to his enduring dedication and exceptional talent. I extend heartfelt congratulations to him. May he continue setting a benchmark for future generations.” 

Legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar also congratulated Virat Kohli for his special innings and achievements and said he feels proud of Virat Kohli for the magnificent performance he has put in. Sachin said, “A big, big congratulations to Virat, he made it look easy, he's gone to 50 hundred in the ODI format. Incredible, super, we are all super proud of him… Today to see him grow so beautifully and achieve so many laurels for our country, I am so proud.” 

India are in a commanding position and have almost fixed their date in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final set to be played at Narendra Modi International Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. New Zealand have lost both their openers early and the Kiwis are reeling under immense pressure at 46 for 2 after the first powerplay. Mohammed Shami bowled a magnificent first spell to pick up two early wickets in the innings. New Zealand need 398 runs to win.