Cricket news

Kohli’s century silences critics, Rizwan’s tribute sparks admiration

Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 100 and record-breaking milestone earned rare admiration from Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan, redefining sportsmanship in cricket

Published

2 years ago

February 24, 2025

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Virat Kohli in full swing during a cricket match

In a dramatic turn of events at the post-match press conference, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan left no doubt about his admiration for India’s cricket superstar, Virat Kohli. In a display that transcended fierce on-field rivalries, Rizwan began his address by extolling Kohli’s form and commitment—an unprecedented gesture in high-stakes international cricket.

A masterclass on the field

Virat Kohli delivered a stunning performance with an unbeaten 100 off 111 balls—a knock that not only thrilled millions of cricket enthusiasts but also underscored his immense talent. His innings, punctuated with seven powerful fours, came at a time when doubts about his form were rife. Critics had questioned his place in the team following a series of lackluster performances, but Kohli’s resolute comeback silenced his detractors instantly. Moreover, he achieved the milestone of becoming the fastest to reach 14,000 ODI runs, reaffirming his status as one of the game’s all-time greats.

Kohli’s innings was a blend of grit and flair, combining impeccable timing with an aggressive yet controlled approach. His performance was a masterclass in batting, where every stroke was executed with precision and purpose. This resurgence was not only vital for his team but also served as an inspiration for cricket fans worldwide.

Rizwan’s candid praise

What made the press conference truly memorable was Rizwan’s unexpected openness. Despite representing Pakistan—a team locked in a fierce rivalry with India—Rizwan chose to spotlight Kohli’s excellence before delving into his own team’s shortcomings. “First, let’s talk about Virat Kohli. I am surprised at his hard work. The world says he is out of form, but he comes to such big matches and easily hits the ball,” Rizwan remarked, his words resonating with admiration and respect.

In an environment where sportsmanship is often overshadowed by rivalry, Rizwan’s tribute was both surprising and refreshing. He acknowledged Kohli’s relentless work ethic and exceptional fitness, highlighting the Indian captain’s unwavering dedication even at the age of 36. Such commendation from a rival captain speaks volumes about Kohli’s consistency and the high regard in which he is held across borders.

The ripple effects on the match

Kohli’s towering performance not only steered India to a memorable victory but also left Pakistan grappling with introspection. While Rizwan’s comments celebrated Kohli’s brilliance, he was equally candid about his team’s failings. Reflecting on Pakistan’s performance, Rizwan admitted, “All three departments have made mistakes. That’s why we are losing the match.” His frank assessment underscored a challenging night for Pakistan, whose efforts fell short in batting, bowling, and fielding.

With a second consecutive defeat, Pakistan’s title defense now hangs in the balance. The pressure mounts as their fate rests on future matches, with upcoming encounters against teams like Bangladesh and New Zealand holding the promise of either redemption or further disappointment. The on-field dynamics of cricket often pivot on such performances, and Kohli’s display has inadvertently added another layer to the unfolding narrative.

Beyond the numbers: the spirit of cricket

This episode serves as a potent reminder that cricket, at its core, is as much about respect and passion as it is about competition. Rizwan’s praise for Kohli transcends the traditional rivalry, spotlighting an era where sportsmanship can shine even in the heat of battle. His comments resonate deeply with fans and fellow players alike, challenging the often adversarial tone of international sports.

Kohli’s performance, characterized by both brilliance and consistency, reaffirms his position as a linchpin in modern cricket. His ability to turn the tide of a match, even when the odds are stacked against him, is a testament to his mental strength and technical prowess. As the cricketing world continues to evolve, moments like these remind us that the spirit of the game is not solely defined by victories or defeats, but by the grace and humility exhibited by its players.

While the match’s outcome casts a shadow over Pakistan’s title hopes, it has simultaneously illuminated the extraordinary talent of Virat Kohli. His latest innings stands as a beacon of inspiration—a narrative of resilience, determination, and excellence that transcends national rivalries.

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Jasprit Bumrah becomes first Indian to play T20Is in 13 countries

Jasprit Bumrah became the first Indian to play T20I cricket in 13 different countries after featuring against Sri Lanka in Japan.

Published

2 days ago

October 1, 2026

APNLive Desk

Jasprit Bumrah added another milestone to his international career on Thursday after taking the field for India against Sri Lanka in the Asian Games 2026 men’s cricket semifinal in Japan.

Bumrah’s appearance at Nishin made him the first Indian to play T20I cricket in 13 different countries, according to the report. He moved ahead of former India captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, along with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who have each played T20Is in 12 countries.

Bumrah’s 13-country T20I record

Before playing in Japan, Bumrah had represented India in T20Is in 12 other countries — India, Australia, Bangladesh, England, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, the UAE, the United States, West Indies and Zimbabwe.

His appearance in Japan took the tally to 13. Kohli, Rohit and Bhuvneshwar had played in all of those countries except Japan, leaving Bumrah alone at the top of the list.

Kohli and Rohit cannot add to their totals as both have retired from T20I cricket, according to the source.

Bumrah shines against Sri Lanka

Bumrah also made an immediate impact in his first T20I appearance in Japan. He claimed two wickets in his opening over against Sri Lanka and finished with figures of 2/7 in two overs.

India went on to dismiss Sri Lanka for 45 in 9.5 overs and won the semifinal by 124 runs to book a place in the Asian Games 2026 men’s cricket final.

The result set up an India-Pakistan gold-medal clash, scheduled for October 3.

Jasprit Bumrah has become the first Indian to play T20I cricket in 13 different countries. His appearance against Sri Lanka in Japan took him past Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who have played T20Is in 12 countries each.

Cricket news

India beat West Indies by 8 wickets, Gill hits record 223

Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 223 and Rohit Sharma’s 101 helped India chase 406 against West Indies and win the second ODI by eight wickets in Guwahati.

Published

2 days ago

October 1, 2026

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India produced a remarkable batting performance to defeat West Indies by eight wickets in the second ODI in Guwahati, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

West Indies posted 405 for 7 in their 50 overs after centuries from John Campbell, Shai Hope and Amir Jangoo. India then produced an emphatic response, reaching 406 for 2 in just 43.3 overs.

Shubman Gill led the chase with an unbeaten 223, while Rohit Sharma provided strong support with a century.

Gill’s record-breaking double century

Gill remained unbeaten on 223 from 133 balls and completed his double century in 117 deliveries.

His innings made him the first batter to score an ODI double century in 117 balls, according to the report. His unbeaten 223 was also recorded as the highest ODI score by an Indian captain and the highest score by an Indian in an ODI chase.

Gill’s innings contained a combination of boundaries and sustained attacking batting as India comfortably reached the target set by West Indies.

Rohit Sharma scores 101

Rohit Sharma also produced a century during India’s chase, scoring 101 from 75 balls.

The innings also saw Rohit reach the milestone of 12,000 ODI runs. He became the third Indian batter to reach the landmark after Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.

Virat Kohli contributed 29 runs before being dismissed during the chase.

West Indies post 405

Earlier, West Indies put up a huge total of 405 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs.

John Campbell scored 101, while Shai Hope made 104. Amir Jangoo also struck a century, scoring 114.

Despite the three centuries, West Indies could not defend the total as India’s top order produced a dominant chase.

India take 2-0 series lead

India completed the chase in 43.3 overs, finishing on 406 for 2 and securing an eight-wicket victory.

The result gives India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, with the second match producing a record-breaking individual performance from captain Shubman Gill.

Cricket news

Asian Games 2026: India win first gold as women’s cricket team beats Sri Lanka

India won its first gold medal at the Asian Games 2026 after the women’s cricket team defeated Sri Lanka in the T20I final, taking the country’s medal tally to seven.

Published

2 weeks ago

September 22, 2026

APNLive Desk

India opened its gold medal account at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya after the women’s cricket team defeated Sri Lanka in the T20I final on Tuesday.

The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side produced a dominant performance to win the final and claim India’s first gold medal of the Games. India set Sri Lanka a target of 217 runs before bowling them out for 69.

The victory took India’s medal tally to seven, adding a gold to the six medals secured during the opening days of the competition.

India assure another medal in badminton

India also secured another medal opportunity in men’s team badminton after defeating hosts Japan 3-0 in the quarter-final.

Ayush Shetty completed the victory by beating Japan’s Koki Watanabe 21-10, 21-19, sending India into the semifinals and assuring the country of at least a medal in the event.

Earlier, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty defeated Japan’s Takuro Hoki and Yugo Kobayashi to give India a 2-0 lead in the tie.

Roshibina Devi assures India another medal

India also secured a medal in wushu after Roshibina Devi reached the women’s 60kg semi-finals.

Roshibina defeated Macao’s Man Sin Chu by point difference to book her place in the last four.

However, India’s Aryan was knocked out in the men’s 56kg quarter-final after losing to Uzbekistan’s Saydullo Abdurashitov.

India miss shooting medal

India’s Elavenil Valarivan and Parth Mane finished fourth in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team final after earlier qualifying second for the gold medal match.

The pair therefore missed out on a podium finish in the event.