NEW DELHI: Former Bangladesh skipper Mohammad Ashraful has expressed confidence in India's batting maestro Virat Kohli achieving a historic milestone by scoring his 50th ODI century in the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday.
Virat Kohli's consistent and exceptional performance throughout the World Cup, defining his title of "chase master" as he has often steered the Men in Blue out of challenging situations, leading them to victory. Kohli recently equaled Sachin Tendulkar's record of 49 ODI centuries against South Africa, leaving him on the verge of surpassing the legendary batsman's feat.
Ashraful praised Kohli's contributions and believes that after narrowly missing a century against the Kiwis in the group-stage match, the Indian captain may reach the milestone in the semi-final clash.
"Virat missed out on two centuries; everyone in the team is in good form. In every game, Rohit is giving a firing start, Iyer and Rahul are in good form. So, I think we may see Virat's 50th hundred," Ashraful told ANI.
Despite predicting Kohli's potential record-breaking innings, Ashraful offered a contrasting view regarding the outcome of the highly anticipated semifinal. The former Bangladesh captain suggested that New Zealand could emerge victorious against the unbeaten Indian team.
"I feel that New Zealand can beat India, so it won't be easy. India is playing good cricket, and we are hoping that we will see good cricket," Ashraful added.
1/10:Hosts India braced for 'pressure' World Cup semi-final against New Zealand
AFP
2/10:India's dominance in the tournament
Team India has won all nine of their league games and boasts a formidable fast-bowling line-up.AP
3/10:New Zealand's previous success vs India
New Zealand defeated India in the 2019 World Cup semi-final and are looking to repeat their success.PTI
4/10:India's long wait for World Cup success
Team India has not won a World Cup title since 2011 and is eager to claim their third title.AFP
5/10:New Zealand's strong batting line-up
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson and batsman Rachin Ravindra are key players in their batting line-up.AFP
6/10:India won the league stage battle
India defeated New Zealand in the league stage, with Shami taking 5 wickets and Kohli scoring 95 runs.PTI
7/10:India's home advantage
The semi-final will take place at Rohit Sharma's home ground, Wankhede Stadium, giving India an advantage.AFP
8/10:New Zealand's strong bowling attack
New Zealand's pace attack, led by Trent Boult and Tim Southee, poses a threat to India's batting line-up.ANI
9/10:Dravid backs Team India
India's coach Rahul Dravid acknowledges the pressure but believes in the team's ability to handle it.Reuters
10/10:New Zealand's break-out star
Rachin Ravindra, a young left-handed batsman, has impressed with his performances in the World Cup.ANICricket enthusiasts eagerly await the clash at Wankhede Stadium, not only to witness the battle between two formidable teams but also to see if Kohli can achieve the historic feat of scoring his 50th ODI century.
(With inputs from ANI)
