IND vs ENG: The highly anticipated 29th league match of the ODI World Cup 2023 between cricketing giants India and England is unfolding at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. As fans ardently hoped for a batting masterclass from Virat Kohli, anticipating his 49th ODI century, their expectations were dashed when the modern-day maestro was dismissed without scoring.
The record for most ODI centuries is held by the Indian cricketing legend, Sachin Tendulkar, who has 49 to his name. Virat, often referred to as “King Kohli” by his admirers, is tantalizingly close to this record, needing just two more centuries. In a recent match against New Zealand, he narrowly missed this milestone by just 5 runs, getting out on 95.
IND vs ENG: Given Kohli’s form and the magnitude of the India vs England game, many had predicted that this would be the match where he’d match Tendulkar’s record. However, after facing just 9 deliveries, Kohli was sent back to the pavilion, triggering a fresh wave of the “Who’s the GOAT?” debate.
The cricketing community is divided on this topic. While some hail Virat Kohli as the zenith of ODI cricket, others are staunch in their belief that Sachin Tendulkar remains unmatched. Amidst this ongoing debate, former England captain, Nasser Hussain, shared his perspective during a show, addressing the evergreen question: Sachin or Virat, who truly is the GOAT in ODIs?
IND vs ENG: Hussain elucidated, “In my eyes, Sachin remains the finest batsman I’ve ever come across or had the challenge to bowl against. However, when it comes to chasing in ODIs, Virat Kohli is unparalleled. So, I find myself on the fence. If it’s about setting a score, Sachin is my pick. But for chasing down targets, it has to be Virat.”
A glimpse into their illustrious careers:
Virat Kohli debuted for India in 2008 and, over 286 ODI matches, has amassed 13,437 runs with an impressive average of 58.17, which includes 48 centuries and 69 half-centuries. In contrast, Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI career spanned 463 matches, during which he scored a staggering 18,426 runs at an average of 44.83, marking him as the top run-scorer in ODI history with 49 centuries. The debate, it seems, will continue to enthrall cricket enthusiasts for years to come.
Image Credit – mansworldindia