In a thrilling encounter at Eden Gardens, Rohit Sharma-led Team India continued their exceptional form in the 2023 ODI World Cup by delivering a comprehensive 243-run victory over South Africa. India’s captain Virat Kohli shone brightly, notching his 49th ODI century on his 35th birthday, a feat that drew comparisons to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. The Indian batsmen and bowlers combined forces to produce a memorable win, keeping the home team unbeaten in the tournament.
Virat Kohli’s incredible century was the highlight of the day. When he scored a single off Kagiso Rabada’s ball in the 49th over, he registered his 49th ODI century, a milestone shared with the cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar congratulated Kohli, hoping that he would surpass the record soon, adding a personal touch to the special occasion. This extraordinary achievement by Kohli resonated with fans worldwide and solidified his status as one of cricket’s all-time greats.
The match began with the usual opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill at the crease. Rohit Sharma displayed his aggression from the outset, hitting boundaries and sixes at will. His remarkable attacking innings included a flurry of boundaries and a couple of towering sixes against the South African bowlers. He ultimately departed after a brilliant 24-ball 40, caught by Temba Bavuma off Kagiso Rabada’s delivery.
Shreyas Iyer continued to impress, playing a vital role in India’s innings. After a cautious start, he shifted gears and started to accelerate. His innings included innovative shots like the scoop over the wicketkeeper and powerful boundaries. Iyer reached his half-century with a boundary off Marco Jansen and continued to score crucial runs before being dismissed for 37 in the 37th over. Iyer’s performance demonstrated his ability to adapt to different match situations.
In the early stages of South Africa’s chase, it was crucial for India to dismiss the in-form Quinton de Kock quickly. Mohammed Siraj stepped up to the challenge, delivering a length delivery that deceived de Kock and resulted in a dismissal where the ball hit the middle stump. De Kock, who had been prolific in the tournament with four centuries, was out for just five runs. Siraj’s early breakthrough set the tone for India’s bowlers.
While India’s pace trio of Shami, Siraj, and Bumrah had been grabbing headlines, Ravindra Jadeja ensured his presence was felt with a remarkable five-wicket haul. Jadeja cleaned up the South African top order, dismissing Bavuma, Klaasen, and Miller, while also removing Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada. His all-round performance helped India bundle out South Africa for just 83 runs, equating to South Africa’s joint second-lowest total in ODIs.
With this resounding victory, Team India continued their unbeaten streak in the 2023 ODI World Cup, solidifying their status as strong contenders for the championship. Their brilliant display with both bat and ball, led by the indomitable Virat Kohli and the versatile Ravindra Jadeja, left fans in awe and anticipation for their upcoming matches.
