In anticipation of the highly awaited clash between two formidable teams in India and South Africa at the ODI World Cup 2023, a heartwarming interaction took place between cricket icons Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers.
The two, known for their strong bond fostered during their time at the Indian Premier League's (IPL) Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), delighted fans with their camaraderie. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) captured the moment in a photograph, captioning it, "A perfect catch-up ahead of #INDvSA."
The reunion, coinciding with Kohli's 35th birthday, added an extra touch of joy for fans who have come to cherish the deep friendship between the two players. Meanwhile, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) had elaborate plans to celebrate Kohli's birthday during the World Cup match at Kolkata's renowned Eden Gardens on November 5. Initially, the plans included a grand celebration featuring fireworks, the distribution of 70,000 Kohli face masks to the audience, and a splendid light and sound show.
On the eve of the match, the former Indian captain and current BCCI president, Sourav Ganguly, along with his elder brother and CAB president, Snehasish Ganguly, engaged in a lively discussion with Rahul Dravid. The trio showcased the newly constructed dressing room and clubhouse at the iconic cricket ground, receiving high praise from Dravid. This gathering brought together cricketing stalwarts, serving as a befitting tribute to Virat Kohli's enduring legacy in Indian cricket.
In preparation for the match, India, with an impressive unbeaten record, won the toss and chose to bat first, maintaining an unchanged Playing XI. On the other hand, South Africa made a single change, bringing back Tabraiz Shamsi in place of Gerald Coetzee. As the teams geared up for the intense showdown, all eyes were on Rohit Sharma's Indian squad and Temba Bavuma's South African team, both eager to claim victory at the hallowed grounds of Eden Gardens.
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