A Sri Lankan journalist has expressed his incredulity and dismay on social media after an intriguing turn of events during a cricket match involving Indian superstar Virat Kohli. In an awe-inspiring display of cricketing prowess, Virat Kohli achieved his 48th ODI century against Bangladesh, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greatest icons and propelling India to their fourth consecutive victory in the ICC World Cup 2023. Kohli’s unbeaten 103 runs, featuring six elegant boundaries and four towering sixes, constituted a true batting masterpiece.
Right from the outset of their chase, the Indian team established their dominance over the Bangladeshi bowlers, with Virat Kohli showcasing sublime form through his flawless strokes and graceful shots. Victory appeared well within India’s grasp, with Kohli merely 15 runs away from reaching his century, a moment eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.
In a touching display of teamwork and camaraderie, KL Rahul, a premier Indian batsman, chose to forgo easy singles to ensure Kohli could achieve his coveted century. This selfless act underscored the unity and sportsmanship that define the Indian cricket team.
While the players’ skills were on full display, the match took an unexpected turn due to the decision of on-field umpire Richard Kettleborough. With India needing just two runs to secure victory and Kohli standing tantalizingly at 97 not out, Nasum Ahmed, the Bangladeshi bowler, sent down a delivery wide down the leg side. This was a ball that might have been deemed wide by most other umpires, but Kettleborough remained steadfast and chose not to signal it as such. This decision left the entire stadium, as well as the Indian dressing room, in fits of laughter.
This incident created a significant buzz on social media platforms, prompting a Sri Lankan journalist to take to Twitter to convey his astonishment and frustration, tweeting,
“Why didn’t the umpire signal wide when the bowler delivered one down the leg side when Kohli was on 97*? Do we really need to play this World Cup @sanjaymanjrekar? #CWC2023 #INDvBAN.”
https://x.com/nibraz88cricket/status/1715038226514428386?s=20
