While the cricket world may be celebrating Virat Kohli’s historic 50th ODI century, former Australian pacer Simon O’Donnell has attacked New Zealand for trying to support the legendary batsman when he was having cramps during the World Cup quarterfinal. During his 113-ball 117, which propelled India into the World Cup final at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday, Kohli, 35, was observed battling with cramps. O’Donnell claimed he had a “problem” with the New Zealand players choosing to help the prominent Indian batsman, who was experiencing cramping. Scroll down to read Ex-Australia Star Questions New Zealand.
Ex-Australia Star Questions New Zealand
India defeated the Blackcaps by 70 runs thanks to a century from captain Virat Kohli and a seven-wicket haul from bowler Mohammed Shami.
“Last night, I encountered issues on a few occasions. Virat Kohli gets cramped, they’re (India) going for 400 runs, and these guys from New Zealand come over and assist him,” O’Donnell, an Australian speed bowler who played 87 ODIs, said on Sen Radio.
“Why did you go assist Virat Kohli during his cramp? when they’re approaching 400 in a World Cup qualifying round. Playing within the law is part of the spirit of the game. You want to travel over to help Virat Kohli, who is destroying your country. But he needs your help,” he continued.
Regarding whether it ultimately affected the result of the game, O’Donnell said the Kiwi players had no business going anywhere near Kohli while he was cramping. He said, “It’s okay. You had no business being within twenty meters of Virat Kohli during a cramp. One of the Kiwis rushed to pick up his bat after Virat flung it away. Even though you have a cramp and a sore hamstring, go pick up your own bat.” Give up trying to get us sixes and fours.
It’s not a major concern. That doesn’t go against the essence of the game. It’s a competitive mentality where we ask ourselves. Well, he’s facing physical challenges, so why are we helping him stay physically fit so he can beat us up?”
India’s opener, Shubman Gill, had to be removed from the game in the 79th over cramping. Kohli was also observed to be having difficulty in the latter stages of his 149-minute stint at the wicket.
