Dale Steyn has offered a fascinating insight into his conversation with Virat Kohli on the eve of the first ODI in Ranchi. In this match, Kohli produced yet another masterclass, smashing his 52nd ODI century. Steyn revealed that Kohli has been rigorously training in London, regularly practising at Lord’s Cricket Ground and with Surrey, supported by a personal trainer to maintain peak fitness despite not consistently featuring in competitive cricket.

Kohli, who retired from T20Is in 2024 and stepped away from Test cricket earlier this year, has made it clear through his actions that he is eyeing the 2027 World Cup. However, every return to the ODI squad often raises questions about his preparation and sharpness.

Those doubts were demolished in Ranchi as he hammered 135 off 120 balls, laced with 11 boundaries and seven clean sixes on a tricky, slowing pitch. His knock was the backbone of India’s total and eventually their 17-run win over South Africa. Speaking on the broadcast, Dale Steyn recalled the details of their brief but insightful chat.

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“I actually saw him last night at dinner,” he said. “I asked him how he keeps himself ready, since he now plays just one format. He told me he lives in London and trains at Lord’s and Surrey. He has a trainer he works with, and he’s always well prepared.”

Steyn added that Kohli’s immaculate conditioning is no coincidence. “He’s mentally strong, always in top shape, and he knows his game inside out. With someone like him — 51 ODI hundreds before this — you expect commitment and professionalism. And that’s exactly why we keep seeing these kinds of performances.”

Kohli echoed similar sentiments after the match, saying that at this stage of his career, physical fitness and mental clarity are the only two ingredients he needs to slot back into the side effortlessly. With a century and a fifty in his last four ODIs, he is proving that age and breaks between formats are barely obstacles for him.

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India now looks ahead to the remaining two ODIs against South Africa on December 3 and 6, before hosting New Zealand for a three-match series in January 2026.