Reactions to Kohli's 50th ODI ton: 'We live in Virat Kohli era. Congratulations emperor'

How the cricketing world and beyond reacted to Virat Kohli's record-breaking 50th ODI century

15-Nov-2023

Virat Kohli walks back after scoring 117 off 113  •  ICC/Getty Images

Virat Kohli scored a record-breaking 50th ODI century, going past Sachin Tendulkar, during the semi-final of the 2023 ODI World Cup against New Zealand in Mumbai. Kohli brought up his ton off 105 balls, with a flick for two off Lockie Ferguson in the 42nd over of India's innings. Here's how the cricketing world reacted to the feat:

The first time I met you in the Indian dressing room, you were pranked by other teammates into touching my feet. I couldn't stop laughing that day. But soon, you touched my heart with your passion and skill. I am so happy that that young boy has grown into a 'Virat' player.

I… pic.twitter.com/KcdoPwgzkX
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 15, 2023

We live in @imVkohli era . Congratulations emperor.
— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) November 15, 2023

Today, @imVkohli has not just scored his 50th ODI century but has also exemplified the spirit of excellence and perseverance that defines the best of sportsmanship.

This remarkable milestone is a testament to his enduring dedication and exceptional talent.

I extend heartfelt… pic.twitter.com/MZKuQsjgsR
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2023

What a moment! What an ocassion for Virat to create history- 50th ODI 100, and in a World Cup Semi-final with his batting hero Sachin watching from the stands. Absolute champion #InsvsNZ
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) November 15, 2023

Kohli brought up the ton in the presence of Tendulkar, who was applauding him from the stands at the Wankhede. The hundred was Kohli's third of this World Cup to go with five half-centuries in ten innings.

Here's the moment we've all been waiting for! @ImVkohli, the maestro, crafting another magnificent century & achieving the milestone of scoring most centuries in one day cricket! Absolute brilliance, King Kohli! #INDvsNZ #ODIWorldcup2023 pic.twitter.com/ibcwfOHpm2
—Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) November 15, 2023

Virat Kohli with a great sense of occasion befitting a great player moves to ODI century No 50 in ICC World Cup Semi-Final 2023. Under the gaze of Sachin Tendulkar, Sir Viv Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, David Beckham and several sporting icons. Wankede is a special venue pic.twitter.com/JsYlrqin2g
— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) November 15, 2023

Unbelievable what a cricketer!! Virat Kohli on the biggest stage gets that magical number…50 x He now stands alone at the top. I reckon he still have one more in him before the end of this tournament
— Lisa Sthalekar (@sthalekar93) November 15, 2023

.@imVkohli's 50th ODI is not just a number. It's an extraordinary tale of cricketing greatness. Well done champ!#CWC23 #INDvNZ
— Robin Aiyuda Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) November 15, 2023

Kohli's century - a cricketing blockbuster with a script that deserves all the applause! 50 -One Day Hundreds! @imVkohli #KohliCenturyBlockbuster #RunApplause
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) November 15, 2023

Kohli had brought up the record-leveling 49th ODI century earlier in the World Cup, scoring a match-winning 101 not out off 121 balls against South Africa in Kolkata on his birthday on November 5. Among current active players, India captain Rohit Sharma is behind Kohli on the list of most hundreds with 31 tons.

That's a World Cup moment to treasure in the history books. 50th ODI hundred and celebrating with utmost respect to the little master. Genius. @INDvNZ #Kohli
— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) November 15, 2023

Huge congrats to @imVkohli on reaching his 50th ODI ! What a legend, and what a moment to achieve it - in the semi-final #IndvNZ #Legend pic.twitter.com/0ql2XHPnKY
— Yusuf Pathan (@iamyusufpathan) November 15, 2023

Virat Kohli India India vs New Zealand ICC Cricket World Cup