Worked just like a Sharm

Rohit Sharma’s record fifth century at the World Cup sent India roaring into the semi-finals.

The opener and fellow centurion KL Rahul guided their side to a comfortable seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Leeds.

Red-hot Rohit followed up centuries in his last two matches by smashing 103 to take him top of the run-scoring charts at the World Cup with 647.

Sri Lanka were rocking on 55 for four but Angelo Mathews smashed 113 to take them to 264 for seven.

However, there was barely a false stroke from India against the new ball.

Sharma and Rahul turned on the style and a crushing 10-wicket win looked to be on the cards until Sharma fell softly, lobbing Kasun Rajitha to mid-off.

Rahul then departed on 113 but skipepr Virat Kohl i ’s 34no finished things off with 39 balls

SHARMA fifth century to spare. Kohli said: “We wanted to play good cricket but we didn’t expect to do this well heading in to the semis. That’s what hard work gets you.

“I am really proud of this team as a captain, they are amazing people.” GB coach Chema Buceta has urged the game’s chiefs to capitalise on their amazing run to the last four of EuroBasket.

The quest for glory in Belgrade ended last night with a 63- 56 defeat to France in the semis.

British basektball has been held back by political in-fighting but Buceta says now is the time to act or any momentum gained will be put at risk.

He said: “It is important to think in the future and not just in the present.

“We now have to do something. These girls did their job and they showed basketball in Great Britain can be a key sport.

“It has competitors: netbal l , badminton, hockey, whatever. But basketball can be with these sports and there is room there for us.”