Rohit and Virat's Potential Records: What Lies Ahead in Raipur's India vs. South Africa ODI?

Okay, here's a news article based on the latest information, focusing on potential records and milestones for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the 2nd India-South Africa ODI in Raipur:

The stage is set in Raipur for the 2nd ODI between India and South Africa, with both teams eager to secure a series-clinching victory on December 3, 2025. However, beyond the team goals, individual milestones and records beckon for two of India's most celebrated cricketers, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Rohit Sharma: Aiming to Improve Against a Formidable Foe

Rohit Sharma, a stalwart of the Indian batting lineup, approaches this ODI with potential milestones in sight, though historically, South Africa has proven to be a challenging opponent for him. In 26 ODIs against South Africa, Rohit has scored 806 runs at an average of 33.58, with a strike rate of 82.66. This is modest compared to his overall ODI career average of 49.22. He has three centuries and two fifties against them, with a highest score of 150.

A key area for Rohit will be to improve his record in South African conditions, where he averages just 19.69 in 14 innings, with only one century. However, his recent form shows promise, including a century in the 2019 World Cup and a solid 40 in the 2023 World Cup match against the Proteas. In the recent 1st ODI against South Africa, Rohit scored 57 runs off 51 balls.

One significant milestone Rohit could achieve is reaching 350 ODI sixes. He currently has 349 sixes, and hitting just one more in this match would add another feather to his already decorated cap. More broadly, a strong performance in this series would allow Rohit to further solidify his presence in the ODI format, especially after retiring from T20Is and Tests.

Virat Kohli: Chasing More Records Against a Favorite Opponent

Virat Kohli, on the other hand, has a more imposing record against South Africa. In 31 ODIs, he has amassed 1,639 runs at an impressive average of 68.3, including six centuries and eight fifties, with a top score of 160*. This makes him the third-highest run-getter in ODIs between India and South Africa, only behind Jacques Kallis (1,535 runs) and Sachin Tendulkar (2,001 runs).

Kohli recently broke Sachin Tendulkar's world record for most centuries in a single format, notching his 52nd ODI century in the first match against South Africa. He also now holds the record for the most ODI centuries against South Africa, with six.

Beyond these feats, Kohli is also nearing the 28,000-run mark in international cricket. He is currently at 27,673 runs and needs just 202 more to reach this milestone. If he achieves this, he will become the third player after Kumar Sangakkara and Sachin Tendulkar to reach this mark. Additionally, Raipur has been a happy hunting ground for Kohli, who averages 173 at the venue.

India vs South Africa: Head-to-Head Record

Historically, South Africa holds a slight edge over India in ODIs. In 94 matches, South Africa has won 51, while India has won 40, with 3 matches ending in no result. However, India has been dominant in recent encounters, including a victory in the 2023 World Cup.

As Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli step onto the field in Raipur, they carry the hopes of a nation and the ambition to achieve personal milestones. Whether they can add to their already impressive legacies remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: cricket fans are in for an exciting contest.


Written By
Priya Joshi is a feature writer and sports storyteller dedicated to bringing real voices and real emotions to life. She finds inspiration in stories of perseverance, teamwork, and ambition. With a warm and engaging tone, Priya’s writing celebrates both achievement and the journey behind it. Her goal is to make sports coverage inspiring and relatable.
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