The three-match ODI series between India and South Africa has reached its most intriguing point, with the contest finely poised at 1-1. After India suffered a 17-run defeat in the Ranchi opener, the Proteas bounced back spectacularly, chasing down a record 359 in Raipur to level the series. With the decider scheduled for December 6 in Visakhapatnam, both sides know that momentum, form, and tactical clarity will be decisive in determining the winner.
Ahead of the must-win clash, former India coach and seasoned analyst Abhishek Nayar offered deep insights into Rohit Sharma’s batting approach under challenging conditions, Virat Kohli’s remarkable tactical evolution, India’s finishing struggles, and the broader batting rhythm required to clinch the series. Nayar began by examining Rohit Sharma’s evolution in ODI cricket, noting how the Indian captain has transformed himself from a lower-order batter in his early years to one of the most destructive openers in world cricket.
“Rohit Sharma has transitioned beautifully in ODIs. From starting lower in the order to becoming India’s most secure opener, his evolution has changed the way India approaches white-ball cricket. His aggressive mindset — prioritising impact over milestones — has lifted the team’s overall intent,” Abhishek Nayar told JioStar.
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Addressing Rohit’s cautious footwork in this series, Nayar attributed it to conditions rather than form.
“Rohit hasn’t stepped out much because of the swing on offer and the unpredictable bounce. Once he senses the ball isn’t moving, he’s fearless with those big stepping-out shots. In Vizag’s familiar batting conditions, we could see that return.”
The conversation then shifted to Virat Kohli, who has struck two centuries in two games and is eyeing a hat-trick in Visakhapatnam. Nayar explained how Kohli’s technical corrections have brought him back to his absolute best.
“Kohli’s brilliance this series comes from how straight his bat is coming down at the point of impact. Earlier, it would open slightly, but now everything — his head position, alignment, balance — is perfect. His bat meets the ball in a straight, powerful arc, even when the ball angles away. That’s why he looks so dominant.”
Nayar further highlighted Kohli’s tactical brain, noting how he’s using different guards to counter South Africa’s varied lengths.
“Virat has reinvented himself tactically since the Australia tour. In his last two innings, he has taken different guards — leg, middle, and off stump — depending on the situation. He’s used his feet, stayed deep, and even stepped out. His brain is operating like an AI system, decoding lengths and adapting instantly.”
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Nayar also praised Ruturaj Gaikwad, who scored his maiden ODI century in Raipur, calling his control and balance “exceptional.” “South Africa tested him with the fifth-stump line and pads-targeting lengths, but his responses were identical and assured. His ability to mirror the same controlled shot on both sides of the wicket shows his class. That balance of mind and body makes him a special talent.”
With form, tactical clarity, and confidence peaking for India’s key batters, the Visakhapatnam decider promises a high-quality finish to an enthralling series.
