ODI World Cup 2023: I’m enjoying myself - Virat Kohli opens up after record-equaling ton on 35th birthday

India’s Virat Kohli reached the promised land on Sunday (Nov 5) as he brought up his 49th ODI ton in the World Cup contest against South Africa. The day was already a special occasion as the former India captain was celebrating his 35th birthday when equaling Sachin Tendulkar’s tally for most ODI hundreds.

After the match, he opened up on his recent journey and the form he is enjoying, as India now prepare for the World Cup semifinal.

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Kohli opens up on record-equaling day

“I’m enjoying myself, playing cricket all over again, that is more important to me than phases. I’m just happy that God has blessed me with that enjoyment. I’m just happy that I’m being able to do what I have done over all these years. (On Sachin's message) It is all too much for me to take in now, to equal my hero’s record is something special for me. He is perfection when it comes to batting. It’s a very emotional moment for me. I know where I come from, I know the days I have watched him on TV. Just to get that appreciation from him means a lot to me,” Virat said during the Player of the Match presentation.

ALSO READ |World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli marks special day with record-equalling knock, joins Tendulkar for most ODI tons

Spinners run riot

Tasked to chase 327, the Proteas were never in the contest after they were bowled out for 83 runs with India on top throughout the contest.

Ravindra Jadeja was the star of the show with five wickets before Virat had taken the spotlight with his 49th ODI hundred, which saw him go level with Sachin Tendulkar.

South Africa’s batting line-up had no answers to India’s dominance as bowlers wiped the floor on the Proteas. Only four batters chalked in double figures for South Africa as Marco Jansen top-scored with 14 on a dull day.

India’s eyes are now on the semifinals but are still unsure of where they will play as permutations could still see them return to Eden Gardens.

If India play Pakistan in the semifinal, they will come back to play at the Eden Gardens with the Netherlands awaiting their final game in Bengaluru. However, if India play any other team, they will travel to Mumbai for a place in the final. South Africa on the flip side will also play in the semifinals before they face Afghanistan in their final league game.