Virat Kohli's celebration
After crushing South Africa to win their ODI World Cup match by a massive 243 runs on Sunday, Team India had an unforgettable day. After choosing to bat first, India amassed a massive 326/5 in 50 overs, and Virat Kohli celebrated his birthday in style by smashing the record with his 49th ODI century. Later, Ravindra Jadeja claimed five wickets as South Africa was dismissed for 83 runs. The entire Indian camp threw a lavish celebration after the match ended in the hosts’ favor.
The team was seen celebrating at their hotel, where Kohli and Jadeja were cutting cakes, in a video that has gone viral on social media. The all-rounder attempted to playfully apply some cake to Kohli’s face, but he appeared to have avoided the attempt.
Kohli tied the record for most ODI tons held by the great Sachin Tendulkar with this century. Regarding his performance, the prominent Indian batter stated that he felt overwhelmed to match his “hero’s” record.
Team India & management celebrating Virat & Jaddu's performance pic.twitter.com/aeUw4tNMDF
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“Playing the most formidable team in the tournament was undoubtedly a big game. There was an incentive to perform well. It became extra special because it was my birthday, and the people who shared it with me enhanced its significance. I did awaken excited that today would not be just another game. After the game, Kohli remarked, “People on the outside have a slightly different perspective on the game.
It is all too much for me to process at this time; breaking my hero’s record is a unique experience for me. When it comes to batting, he is flawless. I’m experiencing a lot of emotion right now. I am aware of my origins and the times I have watched him on television. It means a lot to me just to have that acknowledgement from him,” he continued.
Speaking of the match, the Proteas collapsed like a pack of cards when Suryakumar Yadav and Jadeja set an imposing target of 327 following Kohli’s 121-ball 101 not out, Shreyas Iyer’s fluid 87-ball 77, and some fireworks towards the end.