Incredible reality in Kohli's nod to Indian hero
Virat Kohli's 50th ODI hundred came incredibly on the same date as Sachin Tendulkar's last innings in international cricket, as India booked its spot in the World Cup final.
On November 15, 2013, Tendulkar waved goodbye to his fans after he scored 74 against the West Indies in his final Test match. Incredibly, Kohli's ton that passed Tendulkar's ODI record for most hundreds came exactly 10 years later.
The two matches were also played at Wankhede.
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Kohli was superb in his innings of 117, hardly giving away a chance.
Virat Kohli's 50th ODI century fell 10 years after Sachin Tendulkar's last international match. (Getty)Upon bringing up his hundred, the 35-year-old fell to his knees and bowed in praise towards Tendulkar while also blowing a kiss to his wife, Indian actress Anushka Sharma.
Tendulkar posted a heartfelt message for Kohli on social media, describing it as the "icing on the cake" to see the feat achieved at his home ground.
"The first time I met you in the Indian dressing room, you were pranked by other teammates into touching my feet," he posted on X.
"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.
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"I couldn't be happier that an Indian broke my record. And to do it on the biggest stage - in the World Cup semi-final - and at my home ground is the icing on the cake."
Australian cricket legend Lisa Sthalekar predicted Kohli may have one more milestone up his sleeve for the World Cup final.
Kohli's ton came with superstar sportsperson David Beckham in the stands, present at the ground in his role as a UNICEF Goodwill ambassador.
Kohli has the most Instagram followers for any Indian athlete with 263 million.
Sachin Tendulkar and David Beckham at the World Cup semi-final. (Getty)For overall accounts, Kohli is 16th with the official Instagram account first on 649 million followers.
Cristiano Ronaldo is second with 593 million.
Just in front of Kohli is Taylor Swift on 265 million while behind him is Jennifer Lopez on 248 million.
Beckham is 44th with 85.1 million.
