India thrash South Africa ahead of ICC World Cup 2023 Semi-finals

New Delhi : India's star cricketer Virat Kohli celebrated his 35th birthday in style by delivering a record-equalling 49th ODI century. This impressive milestone saw Kohli join the elite ranks alongside the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. The celebrations continued for India as they went on to dominate South Africa, securing their eighth World Cup victory.

Kohli's exceptional innings featured a composed 101 not out off 121 balls. His partnership with Shreyas Iyer, who contributed a solid 77, propelled India to a commanding total of 326 for five. The duo's 134-run collaboration relentlessly pushed India's pursuit for glory.

Meanwhile Indian bowlers, led by the exceptional Ravindra Jadeja who claimed an incredible five-wicket haul with figures of 5/33, Mohammed Shami (2/18), and Kuldeep Yadav (2/7), dismantled South African batting lineup. This ruthless performance saw the Proteas bundled out for a mere 83 runs in just 27.1 overs.

The foundation for India's success was laid by their openers, Rohit Sharma, who contributed a blistering 40 off 24 balls, and Shubman Gill, who added 23 runs. This dynamic duo's 62-run partnership set the stage for the Indian batting onslaught. Rohit Sharma's aggressive display included two towering sixes and six boundaries, rapidly propelling India past the 50-run mark in a mere 4.3 overs.

Once Rohit and Gill were dismissed, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer took center stage, masterfully dismantling the South African bowlers. To top it off, Ravindra Jadeja played a crucial cameo, remaining unbeaten with a brisk 29 runs off just 15 balls, ensuring that India posted a formidable total.

With this resounding victory, both India and South Africa have solidified their spots in the World Cup semifinals.

Here are the brief scores:

India: 326 for 5 (Virat Kohli 101 not out, Shreyas Iyer 77).

South Africa: 83 all out in 27.1 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 5/33, Mohammed Shami 2/18, Kuldeep Yadav 2/7).