Virat Kohli Shines Again with 53rd ODI Century Against South Africa

Virat Kohli's Remarkable Performance

The Indian cricket community celebrated as Virat Kohli achieved his 53rd ODI century against South Africa, marking his second consecutive century in the series. Following a powerful 135 runs in Ranchi, Kohli showcased a more measured approach this time, scoring 102 runs off 93 balls, which included seven fours and two sixes. His ability to handle both spin and pace, along with his sharp running between the wickets, reflected his prime form.

Praise from Cricket Legends

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag expressed his admiration on X, stating, "Virat Kohli's obsession with centuries is unmatched. While we count centuries, he treats them as routine. Back-to-back hundreds for the King!" Additionally, Irfan Pathan commented, "On Sundays, the King performs, but on weekdays, he outsmarts your strategies. A brilliant century by Kohli!"

Harsha Bhogle, a well-known commentator, tweeted, "A diamond is forever #No53 #ViratKohli." Aakash Chopra noted that Kohli had his "beast mode activated" with his consecutive centuries, while Mohammed Kaif remarked that cricket is incomplete without Kohli, calling his performance "pure vintage!" India's star opener from the recent ICC Women's World Cup also shared, "Form is temporary. Kohli is forever."

Kohli's Dominance Against South Africa

Statistically, Kohli has been exceptional against South Africa in ODIs. In 33 matches and 31 innings, he has amassed 1,741 runs at an impressive average of 69.64, with seven centuries and eight fifties. This achievement makes him the leading century-maker against South Africa in ODIs. With his latest century, Kohli has now recorded 11 instances of consecutive centuries in ODIs, surpassing AB de Villiers, who has six. He also holds the record for the most streaks of three or more consecutive innings with scores over 50 in ODIs, with 13 such streaks.

In 2023, Kohli has played 12 ODIs, scoring 586 runs at an average of 58.60, including three centuries and three fifties. He is just 90 runs shy of joining the elite 28,000-run club in international cricket. Overall, in 555 international matches, he has accumulated 27,910 runs at an average of 52.46, with 84 centuries and 144 fifties.

Match Summary: Raipur ODI

In the Raipur ODI, India batted first after being put in by South Africa, who quickly reduced the hosts to 62/2 with the dismissals of Rohit Sharma (14) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (22). Kohli (102 runs off 93 balls) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (105 runs off 83 balls) formed a formidable partnership, adding 195 runs for the third wicket. KL Rahul (66* off 43 balls) and Ravindra Jadeja (24* off 27 balls) contributed significantly, finishing with a rapid 69-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Marco Jansen was the standout bowler for South Africa, taking 2 wickets for 63 runs.