PUNE, INDIA - OCTOBER 19: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul of India celebrate following the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 between India and Bangladesh at MCA International Stadium on October 19, 2023 in Pune, India. (Photo by Matt Roberts-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Registers 48th ODI ton with match winning six
India demonstrated yet another solid performance with their resounding victory over Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Stadium last night. The men in blue beat their neighboring opposition by 5 wickets thanks to a brilliant century by Virat Kohli.
India now have four out four wins in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup this time and under the leadership of Rohit Sharma have solidified their position as leading contender for the trophy this time around.
Bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja made sure to stem the flow of runs in the first innings by picking up two wickets each after a strong start by the Bangladeshi’s. India was successfully able to restrict Bangladesh to a respectable total of 256 runs for 8 wickets at the end of the first innings and later chased it down with overs to spare.
The Indian pursuit began with a graceful 88-run partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, laying the foundation for Virat Kohli’s extraordinary century, his 48th in ODIs. Kohli’s unbeaten 103, came off six fours and four sixes, sealed victory for the Indians. Gill also played a crucial role with a well-deserved half-century, while KL Rahul contributed an impressive 34 not out but it was Virat Kohli who really took the fight to the Bangla Tigers.
He exhibited a masterful performance in the art of chasing runs. With poise and composure, he deftly handled everything the Bangladeshi bowlers threw at him. He reserved his more aggressive shots for the opportune moments, showing discretion in taking singles unless it was the last ball of the over. With unwavering energy, he converted ones into twos, effectively overshadowing KL, who was left merely as a spectator, while he secured his century with a decisive winning stroke.
With just 2 runs needed off the final delivery and 97 runs to his name, Kohli was determined not to conclude the game without achieving triple digits. He patiently bided his time for the right opportunity. Finally, he brought the match to an end with a perfectly timed flick over deep midwicket, an elegant shot to say the least.
India’s dominant performance propelled them to the summit of the ICC World Cup standings, alongside New Zealand, establishing them as the team to watch in the forthcoming matches. Virat Kohli’s century underscored his unwavering commitment to excellence, bringing him closer to a legendary status in Indian cricket history.
The electrifying opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill and Kohli’s century captivated fans, promising an exciting journey in the tournament as they prepare for their next challenge against New Zealand.
In contrast, Bangladesh struggled to pose a significant threat to India’s formidable lineup, suffering their third consecutive loss. India’s flawless record, with four successful chases in as many matches, heightens the anticipation surrounding their pursuit of World Cup glory.
Chief Scores:
Bangladesh – 256 for 8 in 50 Overs (66 Litton Das, Tanzid Hasan 51, Mahmudullah 46, Ravindra Jadeja 2 for 38, Jasprit Bumrah 2 for 41, Mohammed Siraj 2 for 60)
India – 261 for 3 in 41.3 Overs (Virat Kohli 103*, Shubman Gill 53, Rohit Sharma 48, Mehidy Hasan Miraz 2 for 47, Hasan Mahmud 1 for 65, Mahmudullah 0 for 6)
