Why Virat Kohli Reigns Supreme In The 50-Over World Cup?

Summary: While it remains uncertain whether Virat Kohli will match Sachin Tendulkar's extensive accomplishments in Test cricket, in the realm of ODIs, Kohli stands as the undisputed master.

As the 48th over entered its third delivery, the moment that had been eagerly anticipated by 65,000 pairs of eyes at the Eden Gardens finally unfolded. Virat Kohli, with a skillful back-foot punch, secured the run that brought him level with his cricket idol, Sachin Tendulkar, in terms of ODI centuries. For someone who thrives on the drama of the game, Kohli's reaction was subdued. He took off his helmet, raised his arms, absorbed the grandeur of the moment in a fleeting instant, closed his eyes, looked up to the sky in what seemed like a silent expression of gratitude, gestured with his bat toward the dressing room, and then leaned on the shoulder of his batting partner, Ravindra Jadeja.

Maybe he was too fatigued to indulge in the exuberant celebrations that were characteristic of his more youthful years when he marked his centuries. The combination of the scorching heat, oppressive humidity, and his age – he celebrated his 35th birthday just the day before – had left their mark on his body.

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Scoring centuries had become routine, but the magnitude of this feat sank in as Virat Kohli reached his 49th hundred on his birthday in front of a massive crowd at a storied cricket ground. The emotional moment followed three days after he missed a century by just 12 runs in Mumbai, leaving him deeply grateful for the love from fans and determined to help the team in any way possible.

On match day, thousands chanted Virat Kohli's name, wearing his No.18 jersey and 'Kohli masks.' His presence united fans, with smartphone flashlights lighting his path to a milestone. Over 14 years, Kohli's excellence forged an intimate connection, making his innings, pain, and joy their own. In the 50-over game, Kohli truly reigns as "King," much like Tendulkar in his era, redefining the art of batting and achieving greatness.

Kohli's 49 centuries in 277 innings, compared to Tendulkar's 49 in 452 innings, highlight his exceptional batting prowess. Kohli's ability to impact the game and adapt his role sets him apart in the format, as he effortlessly transitions from aggressor to accumulator, proving invaluable in critical moments.

Kohli didn't opt for the destroyer role at Eden due to pitch conditions. He excels at running singles and twos, and even while fatigued, he maintains a relentless pace. His record-equalling century was achieved with a single, witnessed by thousands at the Eden and millions online.