ODI World Cup 2023: Kids surround Virat Kohli to extend him birthday wishes ahead of South Africa clash
Before the World Cup 2023 clash against South Africa at Eden Gardens, a flock of enthusiastic young fans gathered to extend their birthday wishes to Kohli.
At Eden Gardens, the 37th match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 unfolds with India squaring off against South Africa. Notably, it's a day of double significance, as it marks the 35th birthday of the cricketing star, Virat Kohli, who is on the cusp of matching Sachin Tendulkar's incredible record if he notches a century today, bringing his ODI century count to 49, equaling Sachin's remarkable achievement.
The atmosphere at Eden Gardens is electric, with the venue adorned for this intense clash. Before the match, young fans swarmed around Virat, extending their warm wishes and sharing moments with the cricketing icon.
Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh had conveyed his belief that Virat Kohli is poised to achieve his 49th century on a grander platform. Harbhajan expressed assurance that Kohli wouldn't be disheartened despite coming close to reaching the century milestone against Sri Lanka in the ICC World Cup 2023.
“As usual, you will see him bat like this – Virat Kohli is being Virat Kohli, he is not doing anything less or more. He knows his game plan. The fans were disappointed because the century didn’t come but he won’t be disappointed himself. He knows that (49th) century will come sooner or later and probably at a bigger stage than this,” Harbhajan said during post-match show on Star Sports
I don’t think Virat is thinking too much about 49th century: Rahul Dravid
Kohli remains focused on contributing to India's performance in their World Cup group match against South Africa. Head coach Rahul Dravid revealed that Kohli is more concerned with the team's success. During the recent World Cup 2023 game against Sri Lanka, he fell short by 12 runs, being dismissed for 88, thus missing the opportunity to equal Sachin Tendulkar's ODI century record.
"He's always been professional, always been hardworking, always been switched on. So, nothing different. And no, I don't really think he's thinking too much about 49 and 50, and probably certainly not about his birthday getting a year older. But no, I think he's been really focused on winning the tournament and playing some good cricket for us. I think he's doing that really well," said Dravid in a press conference.
Also Check: Most Runs in World Cup 2023
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