ODI World Cup 2023: Shreyas Iyer's 106 meter strike nearly hits Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma

In the World Cup 2023 clash against Sri Lanka, India faced a setback when their established batters, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, departed in quick succession. However, Shreyas Iyer stepped up at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, unleashing a scintillating innings of 82 off just 56 deliveries, which included six colossal sixes. One of his sixes soared an astonishing 106 meters, earning it the distinction of being the longest of the tournament as recognized by the ICC.

Notably, the ball landed in a spot where Indian cricket star Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma were seated in the stands, prompting them to take evasive action to avoid the colossal hit. The astounding hit came in the 36th over, as Kasun Rajitha bowled a good-length delivery, which Iyer emphatically dispatched over the long-on boundary for a remarkable maximum. 

India Semi-final berth in World Cup 2023

Virat Kohli's quest to match Sachin Tendulkar's legendary record of 49 One-Day International centuries fell short, yet he played a pivotal role in India's commanding total of 357-8 against Sri Lanka. Kohli contributed 88 runs, while Shubman Gill notched an impressive 92. With an eye on their seventh consecutive victory and a secured semi-final berth, their partnership of 189 runs was cut short after the early dismissal of India's skipper, Rohit Sharma, on only the second ball.

India's remarkable journey in this year's 50-over World Cup remains unparalleled, largely credited to the explosive deliveries by Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah. Their sensational display against Sri Lanka opened the path for India to seize a dominant 302-run triumph. This victory solidified their position as the inaugural team to advance to the semi-finals, preserving a flawless record of seven wins in this World Cup campaign.