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'Always Been Professional…' Rahul Dravid On Virat Kohli Ahead of His 35th Birthday 

image-lok9d3edVirat Kohli will turn 35 when India takes on South Africa in WC 2023 (AP Photos)

Indian team head coach Rahul Dravid emphasized that star batter Virat Kohli is more focused on playing his part for the Indian team in the World Cup group match against South Africa, rather than being preoccupied with the prospect of achieving his 49th ODI hundred. 

Kohli's potential 49th ODI century would equal Sachin Tendulkar's record of the most ODI hundreds, a milestone eagerly anticipated by cricket fans worldwide.

In India's last World Cup 2023 match against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium, Kohli came tantalizingly close to his 49th ODI century but was dismissed for 88, just 12 runs short of matching Sachin Tendulkar's world record.

Kohli now has the opportunity to equal the record against South Africa, with the match coinciding with his birthday. Achieving his 49th ODI ton in a winning cause would be a fitting birthday gift for the Indian cricket icon.

During a press conference, Coach Dravid commended Kohli's relaxed and focused demeanor throughout the World Cup. Dravid noted that Kohli has been consistent and professional in his approach, showcasing his commitment to the team's success.

"Yeah, and I think Virat's been really relaxed and as you can see in his performances, you know, batting really well for us, really keen to do well as he always is. So, look, I haven't noticed anything different. He's always been the same," India's head coach Rahul Dravid told the reporters.


"He's always been professional, always been hardworking, always been switched on. So, nothing different. And no, I don't really think he's thinking too much about 49 and 50 (ODI hundreds), and probably certainly not about his birthday getting a year older. But no, I think he's been really focused on winning the tournament and playing some good cricket for us. I think he's doing that really well,"  Dravid added.

For Kohli, reaching this milestone and equalling Sachin Tendulkar's record would be an incredible achievement and a special moment that he might celebrate in the company of his teammates on his 35th birthday.