Virat Kohli delivered a batting masterclass in the first One Day International against New Zealand, inching tantalizingly closer to one of cricket's most sacred records. The former Indian captain scored a majestic 95 runs, steering India to a commanding victory and narrowing the gap to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record for most ODI centuries.
Kohli's Masterful Knock at Hyderabad
The match, played at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on January 12, 2023, saw India set a formidable target. After being put in to bat, India posted a massive 349 for 8 in their 50 overs. The foundation was laid by a spectacular double-century partnership between Shubman Gill and Kohli. While Gill blazed his way to a career-best 208 off 149 balls, Kohli played the perfect anchor in their 208-run stand for the second wicket.
Kohli's innings of 95 came off 104 deliveries and was a blend of classic drives, sharp running, and controlled aggression. Though he fell five runs short of what would have been his 75th international century, his knock was crucial in building India's imposing total. This innings took his ODI century count to 46, leaving him just 4 centuries away from equalling Sachin Tendulkar's monumental record of 49 ODI hundreds.
Bowlers Seal the Deal for India
Chasing 350, New Zealand showed fight but were always behind the required run rate. Michael Bracewell played a blistering knock of 140 off 78 balls, threatening to pull off an improbable heist. However, the Indian bowling attack, led by the experienced Mohammed Shami, held their nerve.
Shami was the pick of the bowlers, delivering a match-winning spell. He claimed 3 wickets for just 18 runs in his 6 overs, including the crucial wicket of the dangerous Bracewell, to break New Zealand's back. His efforts ensured India secured a 12-run victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The Road to the Record
Kohli's pursuit of Tendulkar's record has been a captivating narrative in world cricket. His return to form in 2022 and now in 2023 has seen him score ODI centuries consistently. Each innings brings the milestone closer into view. The cricketing world is now watching intently, as the modern-day great closes in on the record set by the undisputed god of the sport.
This performance not only highlights Kohli's enduring class and hunger for runs but also underscores his vital role in the Indian team's setup as they build towards the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. With the series moving forward, all eyes will be on whether King Kohli can convert the near-miss of 95 into a record-equalling century in the upcoming matches.
