Table of Contents
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli marked his 49th One Day International (ODI) century on his birthday, November 5, 2023, during a crucial match against South Africa in the ongoing ICC ODI World Cup 2023 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Virat Kohli’s milestone century
Kohli’s unbeaten 101 runs, coupled with Shreyas Iyer‘s impressive 77, helped India achieve a substantial total of 326/5. This formidable score put the Proteas under significant pressure. The Indian bowlers delivered a top-notch performance, managing to dismiss the South African team for a mere 83 runs, resulting in a convincing victory for India by 243 runs. Ravindra Jadeja emerged as the standout bowler, claiming a remarkable five-wicket haul.
Kohli’s century was achieved after a meticulous innings, reaching his half-century off 67 balls and taking 119 deliveries to secure a triple-figure score. His landmark achievement was celebrated by fans and cricket enthusiasts worldwide. However, this remarkable feat also stirred controversy and criticism.
Controversy surrounding Virat Kohli’s ton
While many celebrated Kohli’s 49th ODI century, others took issue with the circumstances of his innings. Critics and fans accused Kohli of playing for personal milestones, labeling him as “selfish” for focusing on his individual achievements during the game.
Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – Kartik Aaryan and Samantha Prabhu share heartfelt post to celebrate Virat Kohli’s 49th ODI century and birthday
Venkatesh Prasad’s unconventional take
Amid the criticisms and debates surrounding Kohli’s century, former Indian pace bowler Venkatesh Prasad offered a unique perspective on the situation. Prasad argued that Kohli’s so-called ‘selfishness’ is actually a manifestation of his commitment to the dreams and expectations of a billion cricket fans in India, as he consistently strives for excellence, sets new benchmarks, and ultimately seeks to ensure his team’s success,
“Hearing funny arguments about Virat Kohli being Selfish and obsessed with personal milestones. Yes Kohli is selfish, selfish enough to follow the dream of a billion people, selfish enough to strive for excellence even after achieving so much, selfish enough to set new benchmarks, and selfish enough to ensure his team wins. Yes, Kohli is selfish,” tweeted Prasad.
Hearing funny arguments about Virat Kohli being Selfish and obsessed with personal milestone.
Yes Kohli is selfish, selfish enough to follow the dream of a billion people, selfish enough to strive for excellence even after achieving so much, selfish enough to set new benchmarks,… pic.twitter.com/l5RZRf7dNx— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) November 6, 2023
