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'Proudest Moment Of My Life': Virat Kohli's Childhood Coach After His 49th ODI Ton

image-lolk8t4oVirat Kohli celebrates his 49th ODI century at the 2023 World Cup (AP)

Virat Kohli slapped a belligerent unbeaten ton against South Africa, his second of the ongoing 2023 World Cup and the 49th of his storied ODI career to level up with Sachin Tendulkar’s all-time record. Notably, the cricketer achieved the feat with much flair, belting 10 boundaries against South Africa’s high-flying bowling attack in front of a packed Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata.

Kohli’s run-fest, coupled with Suryakumar Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja’s late assaults stretched Team India’s total to a monumental 326-5 in their blockbuster showdown against the Proteas.

As one can expect, the batting legend found himself at the receiving end of much adulations from across the cricketing spectrum. His childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, also congratulated Kohli and expressed his profound pride for the 35-year-old and for his match-winning batting exploits.


Childhood coach reacts to Virat Kohli’s record ton

Rajkumar Sharma, who coached Virat Kohli at his young age, expressed his admiration for the cricketer after he registered his 49th ODI century. While speaking with the PTI, Sharma stated that he is extremely proud of Kohli and he is glad that the Indian batting veteran has been stacking up match-winning runs for his country. He said:

"It is the proudest moment of my life. Virat Kohli has achieved a great feat and is serving the country very well. If India wins and he contributes to it, then that would be the best moment for me."

Virat Kohli joined Sachin Tendulkar’s tally of 49 ODI centuries in significantly lesser time than the former cricketer, reaching the milestone in just his 276th innings. Considering his recent form, Kohli might well achieve his 50th century in the ongoing 2023 World Cup itself.

Earlier in the tournament, the legendary batter unfurled match-winning run-chase masterclasses against Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and New Zealand. Kohli also scored an attacking 88 against Sri Lanka while batting upfront. His latest century against South Africa marked his sixth fifty-plus score of the competition.

Meanwhile, on the bowling front, India have already snarled seven of the South African wickets with just 67 runs on the boards - thanks to Jadeja's four wickets.