Virat Kohli came tantalizingly close to achieving his 49th ODI century, missing it by just 12 runs against Sri Lanka in India’s seventh fixture of the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. Kohli appeared to be in exceptional form and was on the verge of reaching the same milestone as Sachin Tendulkar in terms of the most ODI centuries. However, his innings was cut short at 88 by Dilshan Madushanka. This particular match was significant as Tendulkar himself was present at the Wankhede Stadium, and achieving this milestone in his presence would have been a historic moment for Virat.
Kohli's reaction in the dressing room after getting out has gone viral. Despite his disappointment, he entertained the thousands of fans at Wankhede with another brilliant performance. In-form pacer Dilshan Madushanka dismissed Kohli, with Pathum Nissanka taking a straightforward catch at short cover. This catch silenced the crowd at Wankhede Stadium, and Kohli had to make the long walk back to the pavilion.
Throughout the ODI World Cup 2023, Kohli has showcased remarkable form, registering a century and four fifties. He stands as the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, accumulating 442 runs in seven matches.
Notably, Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer also came close to scoring centuries in the same match. Gill was dismissed for 92, while Iyer was out for 82. Despite these near centuries, India managed to post a competitive total of 357-8 within their allotted overs. A victory against Sri Lanka would secure India's place in the World Cup 2023 semi-finals. India remain the only undefeated team in the tournament, having won all six of their matches.
With 442 runs in seven innings, Kohli leads India's scoring chart in the World Cup 2023 and ranks second overall, behind South Africa's Quinton de Kock. Meanwhile, Madushanka has claimed the top spot in the bowling chart with 17 wickets in seven innings.