Virat Kohli’s 95 ends India’s 20-year jinx against New Zealand in ICC tournaments
In a pulsating encounter at the scenic Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala, Virat Kohli played a masterful knock of 95 to guide India to a thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Chasing a challenging target of 274, India were in a spot of bother at 112/3 when Kohli joined forces with Ravindra Jadeja. The duo stitched together a crucial 102-run partnership to put India back on track.
Kohli was in sublime touch, timing the ball to perfection and finding gaps with ease. He reached his 95 off just 103 deliveries, but was unfortunately dismissed just five runs short of a well-deserved century.
However, his knock had done enough to put India in a commanding position. Jadeja remained unbeaten on 77 to see India home with 12 balls to spare.
The victory was particularly significant for India as it ended their 20-year jinx against New Zealand in ICC tournaments. The last time India had beaten New Zealand in an ICC event was in the 2003 Cricket World Cup.
Kohli’s knock was hailed by one and all. Former India captain Sachin Tendulkar tweeted, “Virat Kohli, what a knock! You are a true champion. Your hunger for runs is unmatched.”
Current India captain Rohit Sharma said, “Virat is a special player. He always rises to the occasion. His knock today was simply outstanding.”
Kohli’s 95 will be etched in the memory of Indian cricket fans for a long time to come. It was a knock that not only helped India win a crucial match, but also ended a long-standing jinx.
