In a thrilling display of skill and mental fortitude, Virat Kohli reaffirmed his commitment to One Day International (ODI) cricket with a match-winning performance against South Africa in Ranchi. The veteran batsman's magnificent 135 off 120 balls not only powered India to a 17-run victory but also showcased his enduring passion for the 50-over format.
Kohli's innings was a blend of calculated aggression and masterful control. Walking in early after Yashasvi Jaiswal's dismissal, he instantly stamped his authority with a boundary off his first ball. His 136-run partnership with Rohit Sharma, who contributed 57 runs, laid a strong foundation for India's imposing total of 349/8. Kohli's century, his 52nd in ODIs, surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's record of 51 Test hundreds, solidifying his place in cricketing history. This achievement makes him the first player to reach this milestone in a single format. En route to his 52nd ODI century, Kohli hammered 11 fours and seven sixes.
Speaking after receiving his 44th Player-of-the-Match award in ODIs, Kohli emphasized the importance of mental preparation at this stage of his career. "All my preparation is mental," he stated, adding, "As long as my physical levels are up and the mental sharpness is there, then you know it's fine". He also highlighted the need for adequate recovery, especially at 37, noting that he is currently focused on playing just one format for India. Kohli said, "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". He believes that his experience of playing over 300 games allows him to assess his reflexes and physical ability, making extensive practice sessions less crucial.
Kohli's commitment to ODIs comes at a time when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is planning discussions about the future of senior players like Kohli and Rohit Sharma, with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup. A meeting is expected between BCCI officials, coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar after the ongoing ODI series against South Africa to provide clarity on their roles and expectations. The board is keen to ensure that Kohli and Sharma are fully aware of what is expected of them. A BCCI source noted the importance of open communication, stating, "Players of Rohit and Kohli's stature shouldn't be left guessing".
Concerns have been raised about Kohli and Sharma's form after breaks from the ODI format. The BCCI might advise them to participate in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy to maintain match fitness. The team management also seeks to identify backup players in case either Kohli or Sharma is unavailable for the 2027 World Cup.
Despite these discussions, Kohli's recent performance underscores his enduring value to the Indian ODI team. In 2025, he has scored 275 runs in 7 ODI matches, including a century and two half-centuries. His ability to perform under pressure and his "mental" approach to the game make him a vital asset. As India looks ahead to future challenges, including the 2027 World Cup, Kohli's experience and match-winning capabilities will undoubtedly remain crucial to the team's success. Currently, India is ranked first in the ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings.
