Virat Kohli once again demonstrated why he is one of the best ODI batsmen, blasting a superb 135 to secure a close 17-run victory over South Africa in the first ODI in Ranchi. Kohli’s 52nd ODI century stole the show, despite South Africa’s batting efforts. After the game, he discussed how he continues to perform in the only format he still plays.
India began the ODI series after losing 19 consecutive tosses and following a poor Test series. Kohli and Rohit Sharma faced the opposition bowlers before India scored 349. Virat Kohli later explained that at this point in his career, careful practice is no longer a priority.
“Today was really nice to kind of get into the game like that. Pitch played decently in the first 20-25 overs before it started to slow down. Was just about staying in the space of enjoyment. Of course, when you get a start, you get into the situation, you know what needs to be done. The experience kicks in. I’ve never been a believer of preparation. All my preparation is mental. As long as my physical levels are up and the mental sharpness is there, then you know it’s fine,” he said at the post-match interview.
Took a day off before the game: Virat Kohli
Coming in early following the exit of Yashasvi Jaiswal, the veteran batsman smacks his first ball for a boundary. He combined in a 136-run stand with Rohit Sharma, who also became the leading six-hitter ever for India in ODIs.
His hundred had taken 102 balls, and he was greeted by an ecstatic fan who rushed onto the pitch, sank to his knees before him. He hit 20 runs off four balls against Prenelan Subrayen after reaching his century. His eventual 135 off 120 balls, with 11 fours and seven sixes, steamed India close to the 350 zone. The New Delhi-boy spoke about recovery at this age and raised the issue of his reflexes.
“I took a day off before the game. I’m 37 and need time for recovery. That’s how it’s always going to be – I’m just playing one form of the game. If you’ve played 300-odd games and so much cricket, you know when you’re hitting balls in practice, you know the reflexes are there and the physical ability is there to bat long. As long as you’re hitting the ball well and playing good cricket, it’s about physically fit, mentally ready and excited.”
Virat Kohli
South Africa were three down to Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh, but the Proteas rebuilt with Matthew Breetzke’s 72, Marco Jansen’s 70 off 39 balls and Corbin Bosch’s 67. Needing 18 off the last over, India held their nerve and it was Prasidh Krishna who completed the match for a thrilling win.
