2012 Prediction Comes True: Virat Kohli Hits 50th ODI Century

Heartwarming story of Shiju Balandan, who predicted Virat Kohli's 50th ODI century back in 2012 after his 12th century.

Gobind Arora
Published on: 17 Nov 2023 6:31 AM GMT
Virat Kohli
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Virat Kohli Hits 50th ODI Century (pc: social media)

In a heartening turn of events for cricket enthusiasts, a social media post from 2012 has resurfaced, chronicling the prescient prediction of a fan regarding Virat Kohli's remarkable cricket journey. Back in July 2012, after Kohli secured his 12th ODI century, a fan named Shiju Balandan made a bold proclamation on Facebook, foreseeing that Kohli would eventually achieve the milestone of 50 centuries.

2012 Social Media Post Resurfaces

Tragically, Shiju's life was cut short after updating his post up to Kohli's 33rd century. However, in a touching tribute, Shiju's friends took it upon themselves to continue the count, keeping the spirit of his prediction alive. The culmination of this emotional journey unfolded recently when Virat Kohli achieved his 50th ODI century, making history in Indian cricket.

Sports analyst Joy Bhattacharjya shared this heartening story on social media, stating, “About sport, and us. In July 2012, after Virat got his 12th ODI century, Shiju Balandan predicted on FB that his idol would get to 50. He kept updating on his post till Virat's 33rd. And then Shiju left us. His friends continued the count. And yesterday, Shiju got there!” The post quickly went viral, garnering over 121k views and capturing the sentiments of cricket fans worldwide.

Shiju Balandan's Bold Proclamation After Kohli's 12th ODI Century

The historic moment for Indian cricket came during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-finals, where India emerged victorious over New Zealand with a commanding 70-run win. Kohli not only surpassed the previous record holder, Sachin Tendulkar, for the most runs in a single edition of the ODI World Cup but also joined the elite club of Indian cricketers with 50 centuries, alongside legends like Sourav Ganguly and Rohit Sharma.

The saga of Shiju Balandan's foresight serves as a testament to the enduring passion and loyalty that fans bring to the world of sports. It is a celebration of cricket, friendship, and the indomitable spirit that transcends time.

Echoes of Triumph: Global Adulation for Kohli and His Achievement

Virat Kohli's monumental achievement echoed beyond the cricketing realm, drawing global adulation and applause. Fans, experts, and fellow athletes celebrated Kohli's determination and skill, solidifying his status as a cricketing legend.

Shiju's Legacy: Inspiring a New Generation of Cricket Enthusiasts

Shiju Balandan's legacy lives on, inspiring a new generation of cricket enthusiasts who embrace the passion and foresight that define the spirit of the sport. His story serves as a reminder that, in the world of cricket, the bond between fans and their idols is a timeless and powerful force.

Joy Bhattacharjya Shares the Heartening Tale on Social Media

Sports analyst Joy Bhattacharjya shared this heartening story on social media, stating, “About sport, and us. In July 2012, after Virat got his 12th ODI century, Shiju Balandan predicted on FB that his idol would get to 50. He kept updating on his post till Virat's 33rd. And then Shiju left us. His friends continued the count. And yesterday, Shiju got there!” The post quickly went viral, garnering over 121k views and capturing the sentiments of cricket fans worldwide.

Gobind Arora

Gobind Arora

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