Kolkata - Individuals celebrate their birthdays in various ways, and for Virat Kohli, the ideal celebration involves showcasing his exceptional cricket skills by achieving a century. Although this particular inning may not rank among his greatest, it holds a special place in his career since he achieved his 49th ODI century, thereby equalling the remarkable milestone set by Sachin Tendulkar for the most centuries in the 50-over format of the game.

In a significant twist, Virat Kohli, deeply admiring Sachin Tendulkar, reflected on his achievement by acknowledging that he would never reach the same level of greatness as his hero. Coincidentally, Sachin had also notched up a century on his 25th birthday during the Coca Cola Cup final in Sharjah on April 24, 1998, when he scored 134 while opening the innings against Australia.

Sachin Tendulkar was one of the first to extend his congratulations to Kohli, humorously noting that it had taken him 365 days to progress from 49 to 50 centuries earlier in the year, and he expressed his hope that Kohli would soon surpass his record.

Virat Kohli shared his gratitude after the innings at the Eden Gardens, expressing that every opportunity to represent India was of great significance to him. Achieving this milestone on his birthday, in front of an enthusiastic crowd, was a dream come true for him, something he had wished for as a child. Kohli also expressed his deep appreciation for the support from the fans and his commitment to continue contributing to the team in any way possible.