World Cup 2023: 'Breaking records like a boss', Virat Kohli earns plaudits from Netizens on eclipsing Tendulkar's feat

Virat Kohli on Wednesday surpassed Sachin Tendulkar for most ODI hundreds when he slammed his 50th century in the 50-over format, during India’s World Cup semi-final against New Zealand in Mumbai.

It was only earlier in the tournament when Kohli had equalled Tendulkar on 49 centuries, during India’s league stage match against South Africa.

On Wednesday, Kohli took 106 balls to get to his century, his third ton of the 2023 World Cup. He was eventually dismissed for 117 by Tim Southee in the 44th over.

The cricketing fraternity were all praise for Virat Kohli after his memorable achievement. Here’s how current and former cricketers hailed the “great” cricketer:

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

Take a bow, Virat Kohli for hitting a half-century of centuries!

Breaking records like a boss, setting the pitch ablaze with a FIFTY-fer! 🔥 Your relentless pursuit of excellence is a ton of inspiration. 5️⃣0️⃣ ODI centuries in the bag – you're rewriting history with every shot!… pic.twitter.com/E9zxd5QoAY

— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) November 15, 2023

A half-century of CENTURIES 🤯

Virat Kohli, take a bow! 🙌#CWC23 | #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/k2TJEURgfz

— ICC (@ICC) November 15, 2023

It was here, exactly 10 years ago, that Tendulkar played his last international innings. Nov 15 now has a new meaning. Truly, the baton was passed from Sachin to Virat.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) 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

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

Virat Kohli. GOAT. 🙇‍♂️ #50 #INDvNZ #CWC23

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) November 15, 2023