Controversy Surrounding Virat Kohli's 50th ODI Century: Criticism Over New Zealand's Support During Cramps

While the cricket world may be celebrating Virat Kohli's historic 50th ODI century, former Australian bowler Simon O'Donnell has attacked New Zealand for trying to support the legendary batsman while he was having cramps during this World Cup quarterfinal.

During his 113-ball 117, which propelled India into the World Cup final at the Wankhede Stadium here on Wednesday, Kohli, 35, was seen battling with cramps.

O'Donnell said he had a "problem" with the New Zealand players choosing to help the prominent Indian batsman who was experiencing cramping.

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 had issues a few occasions. "Virat Kohli gets cramp, 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? while 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 nation, but he needs your help." Regarding whether it ultimately affected the result of the game, O'Donnell said the Kiwi players had no business going anywhere near Kohli when he was cramping.

"It's okay. You have absolutely 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 for 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 at the 79th over cramping, while Kohli was also seen to be having difficulty in the latter stages of his 149-minute stint at the wicket.

"I simply don't understand it; I just don't." Things supporting him: in a World Cup quarterfinal, he's already made fifty One-Day hundreds; why aid him in making his fiftyth against you? Cast a spell for me."

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