Former Indian opening batter Sunil Gavaskar has recalled Virat Kohli's exploits against former Sri Lankan speedster Lasith Malinga during commentary amid the 2023 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. However, Gavaskar endured a slip of tongue, the video of which went viral on social media.
Kohli took Malinga to the cleaners during the Commonwealth bank tri-series in 2012 in pursuit of 321. Team India had been tasked with chasing down the target in only 40 overs, given the net run-rate permutations. The 35th over of the innings saw Kohli thrash Malinga for 24 runs in an over as the Men in Blue chased the target down in 36.4 overs, with the right-hander staying unbeaten at 133*.
During commentary in the 38th over of the innings, Gavaskar recalled Kohli's innings against Sri Lanka in Hobart in 2012 and got carried away by the emotions. He wanted to say, 'Jis Tarah Malinga ko khela tha unhone'.
Virat Kohli breaks Sachin Tendulkar's world-record of 50 ODI tons:
Meanwhile, the 35-year-old batted brilliantly under the scorching conditions in Mumbai and battled cramps to reach 50 ODI tons. The moment occurred in the 42nd over of the chase as he helped one to the leg side and took two runs, soaking in all the emotions after letting out a roar.
After Mohammed Shami took 2 wickets in the first 10 overs, Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell fought back. Shami returned to break their 181-run stand by dismissing Williamson, followed by Tom Latham in the same over. The right-arm seamer eventually finished with 7 wickets and also earned the Player of the Match award, sealing India's spot in the final.
