As India gears up for the first ODI against South Africa, Virat Kohli looked in supreme touch during an intense nets session in Ranchi. Training at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Kohli was seen playing confident back-foot punches, precise drives, and handling throwdowns with his signature balance and timing. He even unleashed a few elegant lofted shots, signalling an early aggressive mindset ahead of the series opener.
Rohit Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Yashasvi Jaiswal also trained alongside him, each appearing composed and focused. With Rohit and Kohli reuniting in the ODI setup, the session’s energy reflected a refreshed and determined batting unit.
If these preparations are any indication, India’s top order looks primed to make a strong statement once the series begins. Virat Kohli’s return to home ODI cricket—his first since February 2025—naturally boosts expectations. His recent performances underline his continued dominance.
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In the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Kohli played two defining knocks: a sublime unbeaten century against Pakistan and a vital 84 in the semifinal against Australia, reinforcing his reputation as cricket’s modern chase master.
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Despite beginning the Australia ODI series earlier this year with back-to-back ducks, Kohli showcased his resilience. In the third ODI, he roared back with an unbeaten 74, steering India to a nine-wicket win in a comfortable chase of 237. The innings was historic, helping him surpass Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI cricket.
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Now standing tall with over 14,000 ODI runs—achieved faster than any batter in history—and an astonishing average close to 58, Kohli enters the South Africa series in peak form. His chasing record remains unmatched: over 6,000 runs in successful run-chases and the most 50-plus scores when pursuing a target. As India prepares for the Proteas challenge, all eyes will once again be on Kohli, the heartbeat of India’s ODI batting lineup.
