Ranchi, India - Virat Kohli etched his name further into the record books, slamming his record-extending 52nd One Day International (ODI) century against South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Sunday. The century, a masterful display of batting prowess, arrived in a crucial situation, helping India stay competitive in the first ODI of the series.
South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first, putting the Indian batting order under immediate pressure. India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal early, but Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli steadied the ship, combining for a century partnership. Sharma reached his half-century in impressive fashion, breaking Shahid Afridi's world record for most sixes in ODI history before falling for 57.
Kohli, however, remained unperturbed, anchoring the innings with his signature blend of aggression and composure. He reached his fifty with a six. The former Indian captain reached his century in 102 deliveries, decorated with seven boundaries and five sixes. This was Kohli's third ODI hundred in Ranchi.
With this century, Kohli surpassed Sachin Tendulkar for the most centuries in a single format of international cricket. Kohli now has 83 centuries in international cricket. Tendulkar leads with 100 international centuries.
Kohli's innings was a masterclass in pacing, as he accelerated after a cautious start, taking on the South African bowlers with calculated aggression. He built his innings with smart rotation of strike, ensuring India maintained a healthy run rate throughout the middle overs.
The century came at a critical juncture for India, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing Test series loss against the Proteas. With several key players missing, the onus was on the experienced duo of Kohli and Sharma to guide the team.
The crowd in Ranchi was treated to a sensational batting display, roaring with every boundary and six struck by Kohli. A brief interruption occurred when a fan breached security to meet Kohli.
As of the latest updates, India reached 172/2 after 24 overs, with Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad at the crease. The stage is set for a high-scoring encounter, with India aiming to post a formidable total and take an early lead in the three-match series.
