Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary cricket icon, took to Twitter to praise Virat Kohli's remarkable feats during the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand in Mumbai. Kohli made history by surpassing two significant records previously held by the Master Blaster. In a thrilling clash at Wankhede Stadium, Kohli surpassed Tendulkar's 2003 World Cup tally of 673 runs and achieved his 50th ODI century, breaking Tendulkar’s record of 49.

Tendulkar, present at the stands, paid tribute to Kohli, who acknowledged him from the field during this historic moment.

“The first time I met you in the Indian dressing room, you were teased by teammates into touching my feet. I couldn't stop laughing. But soon, you touched my heart with your passion and skill. I'm thrilled to see that young boy grow into a ‘Virat’ player. I couldn’t be happier that an Indian surpassed my record. Doing it on the grand stage of the World Cup Semi-final at my home ground is the cherry on top,” Tendulkar tweeted.

Kohli, at 35, achieved this milestone in 279 innings, securing two runs off Lockie Ferguson in the 42nd over of India's innings. He equaled Tendulkar's record when he reached his 49th ODI hundred against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on his 35th birthday.

This century marked Kohli's third in this tournament, accompanied by five half-centuries in ten innings. The crowd erupted in applause as Kohli celebrated his century, with his wife, actor Anushka Sharma, and other celebrities like football star David Beckham cheering from the stands.

Today, it's been ten years since Tendulkar's last international match at Wankhede on November 15, 2013. India set a target of 398 for New Zealand in today's match. The men’s cricket team remains unbeaten in this World Cup.

The first time I met you in the Indian dressing room, you were pranked by other teammates into touching my feet. I couldn’t stop laughing that day. But soon, you touched my heart with your passion and skill. I am so happy that that young boy has grown into a ‘Virat’ player.

I… pic.twitter.com/KcdoPwgzkX

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 15, 2023