‘South Africa lost to Virat Kohli by 18 runs’ – Fans react as India thrashed South Africa by 243 runs in ODI World Cup 2023

Match number 37 of the ODI World Cup 2023 saw the two teams who are playing some quality cricket in the tournament, India against South Africa. The match was even more special as it was the 35^th birthday of the legendary India batter Virat Kohli. But the match eventually turned out to be a one-sided affair at the end as the Indian juggernaut marched on with eight consecutive victories. The Indian team thrashed the South African team by 243 runs and made sure that they would finish the league stage at number one.

India captain Rohit Sharma chose to bat after winning the toss on a slowing pitch. The opening duo, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill formed a promising 50-run partnership in the fifth over, cut short by Kagiso Rabada’s dismissal of Rohit at 40 runs. Subsequently, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli aimed to create a solid partnership, but Keshav Maharaj bowled out Gill for 23.

Despite the pitch’s challenges, Kohli and Shreyas Iyer built a significant 134-run partnership. Yet, Iyer fell for 77 runs while trying to accelerate the scoring. Late contributions from Suryakumar Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja helped India reach a total of 326 runs.

India thrashed South Africa by 243 runs

Facing the target, it became evident that they were significantly ahead of the expected score. Jasprit Bumrah continued to apply pressure, showcasing his exceptional form.  Quinton de Kock, the top run-scorer, was dismissed early by Mohammed Siraj, while Jadeja was introduced into the attack by Rohit, resulting in immediate wicket-taking. With Mohammed Shami claiming two more wickets and Kuldeep making an appearance to wrap up the tail, South Africa’s batsmen struggled, none managing to surpass 20 runs.

South Africa’s batting performance was underwhelming, in stark contrast to Virat Kohli, who scored a century with 101 runs from 120 balls. Consequently, South Africa was bowled out for a mere 83 runs. Let us look at how Twitter has reacted to  this victory from India;