Kolkata, Oct 31: November 5th marks not only the 35th birthday of cricketing legend Virat Kohli but also coincides with a critical match in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, where India and South Africa face off at Kolkata’s historic Eden Gardens.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has orchestrated a grand celebration, including the distribution of 70,000 masks featuring the visage of the Indian superstar to the fans attending the match.
As part of their tribute, the CAB has prepared a special gift for Virat Kohli, which has been closely guarded to maintain the element of surprise. CAB President Snehasish Ganguly revealed, “We have ordered a cake for Virat, and the design will be something everyone identifies with Virat Kohli. I am not sharing the pictures yet, for let that be a surprise.”
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The celebration will also include a fireworks display during the innings break, intended as both a birthday homage to Virat and an acknowledgement of the passion of Kolkata’s cricket-loving crowd.
Ganguly emphasized that the entire stadium’s audience consists of Virat Kohli fans, and this grand gesture is their way of showing their appreciation. They are anticipating a full house for this momentous day, underlining the overwhelming love and admiration for the cricket superstar.
Virat Kohli has displayed remarkable form during the World Cup, notching up a century and three half-centuries in just six innings. He stands on the brink of equalling Sachin Tendulkar’s legendary record of 49 ODI centuries, requiring just one more to reach the milestone.
India’s World Cup campaign has been exceptional, with outstanding performances from the entire team. Despite the temporary absence of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya due to injury, he is expected to return around the time of the semifinals.
Rohit Sharma has been in scintillating form, while the middle-order has consistently capitalized on the strong starts provided by the openers. The Indian bowling attack, especially the pacers, has been a revelation, most recently demonstrated by their demolition of defending champions England in Lucknow.
The next stop for India is a clash with Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, and anticipation is high as Virat Kohli’s birthday celebration promises to be an unforgettable event.
