Cricket World Cup: Kohli stars as India reinforce favourites tag

India dominate Proteas
South Africa dismissed for just 83
Kohli hits ton to equal Tendulkar’s record

Host nation India underlined their status as ICC Cricket World Cup favourites by sweeping aside second-placed South Africa to make it eight wins from eight on a record-equalling day for Virat Kohli.

243 run win for host and favourites

Rohit Sharma’s table-topping side hammered the Proteas by 243 runs at Eden Gardens, removing their opponents for just 83 – Ravindra Jadeja snaring 5-33 – after Kohli’s undefeated century had underpinned their total of 326-5.

On his 35th birthday, Kohli marked the occasion with a stellar performance, equalling the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record by notching up his 49th one-day international century. The crowd at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens erupted in celebration as Kohli’s unbeaten 101 off 121 balls helped India amass a formidable total of 326-5 in their 50 overs.

Partnering with Shreyas Iyer, Kohli stitched together a crucial 134-run partnership for the third wicket. Iyer’s valiant 77 off 87 deliveries played a pivotal role in steadying India’s innings after an explosive start from Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill.

India’s innings concluded with a flourish, thanks to a spirited 22 off 14 balls from Suryakumar Yadav and an unbeaten 29 off 15 from Ravindra Jadeja.

In reply, South Africa struggled to find their footing, ultimately succumbing to India’s formidable bowling attack. Jadeja emerged as the standout performer, claiming an impressive 5-33.

With this commanding victory, India has secured the top spot in the group stage, winning all eight of their matches. Meanwhile, South Africa, having already secured a semi-final berth, sit in second place with 12 points, two ahead of third-placed Australia.

The match held significant weight, potentially serving as a preview of the World Cup final in Ahmedabad later this month. India’s convincing performance only strengthens their position as frontrunners to clinch the coveted trophy for the third time.

Betting Implications

Hosts India, the pre-tournament favourites have not put a foot wrong so far and won at a canter against third favourites South Africa, who occupy second place in the table. At the time of writing, the best price available for India to win the World Cup is evens with Betfred. South Africa have recently slipped to third favourites behind Australia who have really clicked into gear in the second half of the tournament. The Aussies are currently 3/1 with Betway, ahead of South Africa 4/1.