• 'It was absolutely wrong...': Kusal Mendis opens up on his strange reply to Virat Kohli's 49th ODI century

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    'It was absolutely wrong...': Kusal Mendis opens up on his strange reply to Virat Kohli's 49th ODI century
    Sri Lanka's World Cup 2023 campaign came to an end with just two wins in nine games, which prevented them from earning a spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Digital Desk: Sri Lankan cricketer Kusal Mendis has taken note of his earlier remarks about Virat Kohli, which he made following the Indian batsman's 49th century in an ODI at the current ICC World Cup 2023. At a news conference, Mendis had neglected to congratulate Kohli on his accomplishment.

    Mendis was questioned if he would like to pay respect to Kohli before Sri Lanka's game against Bangladesh in Delhi. Mendis said, "Why should I congratulate him?" in an inquisitive remark that went viral on social media.

    Regretfully, Sri Lanka's World Cup 2023 campaign came to an end with just two wins in nine games, which prevented them from earning a spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Kusal Mendis openly admitted his mistake and explained his reasons for his abrupt reply to the reporter when he returned home after the disappointing World Cup campaign for Cricket.

    "That day, I went to the press conference and I was not aware that Virat had hit a century. When the journalist asked me that question out of the blue, I was at a loss for words and was unable to fully understand it. I feel I shouldn't have reacted the way I did after realising that what I said was completely incorrect. Scoring 49 ODI tonnes is not an easy job to do; Virat is one of the brilliant cricketers in the world," he stated, as cited by Sri Lanka's Asian Mirror.

    Meanwhile, Kohli acknowledged with a great sense of honour that he had matched his hero Sachin Tendulkar's record of 49 one-day international hundreds. This incredible achievement occurred just after India defeated South Africa, another World Cup semifinalist, by a commanding 243 runs. Kohli received the Player of the Match award in honour of his exceptional performance. He also got a congratulations tweet from none other than Tendulkar.

    Kohli had stated, "I think Tendulkar's tweet is really special." It's just too much to process right now. Reaching the same record as my hero is a great honour. With the bat, he is flawless. It's an emotional moment. I know the days I come from, I know the days I have watched him on TV."

    "It means a lot to me to receive his appreciation."

    The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) was recently suspended by the board of the International Cricket Council (ICC) because of influence from the government. This choice was taken in order to protect the sport's independence and integrity.
     
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