Virat Kohli, India’s batting maestro, etched his name in cricketing history by breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record during a spectacular ODI knock against arch-rivals Pakistan. In the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2023, Kohli reached the remarkable milestone of 13,000 ODI runs, becoming the fifth player in men’s ODIs to achieve this feat.
Record-Breaking Achievement:
Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Sanath Jayasuriya and Mahela Jayawardene are the illustrious cricketers who had previously reached the 13,000-run landmark in men’s ODIs. Kohli, known for his consistency and excellence, achieved this milestone in an astonishing 267 innings, making him the fastest to reach this incredible milestone. Tendulkar, in comparison, took 321 innings to reach the same milestone.
Kohli’s Brilliant Knock:
During the Super 4 stage clash against Pakistan, Kohli’s magnificent innings displayed his class and determination. He reached his half-century in 55 balls and then accelerated to his 47th ODI century in just 29 more balls. KL Rahul, his partner in the innings, also played a brilliant role, completing his sixth ODI century. Their partnership set the foundation for India’s formidable total of 356/2.
India’s dominance in the match:
Chasing a daunting target of 367 for victory, Pakistan found themselves struggling against India’s formidable bowling attack. The Pakistani innings could only manage to reach 128 in 32 overs, falling significantly short of the target. India secured a convincing victory, winning the contest by a massive margin of 228 runs.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Five-Wicket Haul:
Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav emerged as the star of India’s bowling attack, claiming an exceptional five-wicket haul. His brilliant performance propelled India to their largest ODI victory over Pakistan in terms of runs.
Also READ: Twitter Reactions – KL Rahul, Virat Kohli and Kuldeep Yadav shine as India hammer Pakistan in Super 4 clash at Asia Cup 2023
Anushka Sharma’s shoutout to Virat Kohli
Anushka Sharma, Bollywood actress and Virat’s wife, took to Instagram stories to shower love for her husband. Sharing a photo of her TV screen featuring Virat from the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 clash, she wrote, “Super knock, super guy(clapping and red heart emojis)!!”
Anushka also lauded Rahul for his century in the comeback match. “Congratulations KL Rahul (clapping emoji)..,” she added.