ICC

Despite concerns over the heavy cloud cover and slight drizzle, the toss proceeded as scheduled, overcoming the looming threat of rain hovering around the match.

This move came after the PCB dismissed the Pakistan Selection Committee on Tuesday, triggered by the resignation of chief selector Inzamam Ul Haq.

Come Thursday, and the Australia-South Africa rivalry will have another chapter added when the two teams clash in the semi-finals of 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Thursday, to decide who goes to Ahmedabad for the title clash on Sunday.

In a stellar performance, Kohli scored 117 off 113 deliveries, contributing significantly to India's total of 397/4 in the first semi-final of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023.

Kohli, who had equaled Sachin Tendulkar's record of 49 centuries just ten days prior, reached his unprecedented 50th hundred with the Little Master himself watching and applauding from the stands.

This record-breaking century marked Kohli surpassing the previous record of 49 centuries, which he jointly held with cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli achieved this remarkable feat in 279 innings. 

The controversy sparked speculation that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had, in consultation with the local curator and Indian team management, changed the pitch to one already used for two matches.

Beckham, currently on a visit to India as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, enjoyed the cricket match alongside Tendulkar.

All Sharma would say was that the surface was "a little on the slower side", adding, "whatever we do, we have to do it well".

Sehwag emphasized the importance of playing fearless cricket, urging the team to focus on giving their best without being preoccupied with the eventual outcome.