India defeated South Africa by 17 runs in the first ODI played in Ranchi to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Virat Kohli led the team to victory with a brilliant innings of 135 runs. After the match, Kohli clearly stated that his focus is now solely on ODI cricket.
He has already retired from T20 and Test cricket. After India's 0-2 defeat in the recent Test series, there were speculations about his return to the Test team, but Kohli put an end to these discussions after his excellent performance in Ranchi.
Kohli was named Player of the Match. Following his statement, when questions were raised about his participation in the World Cup, the team's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, said, "When he is in such good form, why raise such questions?"
I'm mentally strong - Kohli
After the match, Virat Kohli said that his preparation is entirely mental. He explained that as long as his body is in good shape and he feels mentally sharp, he remains confident. Kohli said that he takes a day off before matches because, at 37 years old, he needs time for recovery.
He said, "I know when to rest and when to play." He has played over 300 ODIs. According to Kohli, if you're in touch with the game and can bat for an hour or two in the nets, you know you're in the right shape.
"I wanted to enjoy my game."
Kohli said of his innings, "The pitch was good for 20-25 overs, but it slowed down after that. I just wanted to play according to the ball and enjoy my game."
There's no need to question Virat Kohli's future - Batting Coach
Team India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, said, "Given Virat Kohli's fitness and form, there's no reason to question his future."
When asked about Kohli's participation in the 2027 World Cup, Kotak said, "I don't understand why there's a need to discuss this. He's batting very well. I don't think we need to discuss his future. The way he's playing and the way he's maintaining his fitness, there's no question about his future."
Kotak also said that the team management isn't getting involved in future debates and is focused on the present. He said that both Rohit and Virat are key players in the team and are constantly guiding the younger players by sharing their experiences on the field.
BCCI President also praised Virat and Rohit. BCCI President Mithun Manhas praised India's thrilling 17-run victory in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi. He also praised Virat Kohli's innings and the performances of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Kuldeep Yadav.
Manhas wrote on X that Virat's brilliant batting and the strong partnership between Rohit and Rahul put the team in a good position. India took a 1-0 lead in the series thanks to crucial contributions from Kuldeep and Harshit Rana.
India leads the series 1-0
India defeated South Africa by 17 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Virat Kohli's 135-run century was followed by four wickets by fast bowler Kuldeep Yadav and three wickets by Harshit Rana to ensure India's victory.
Kohli hit 11 fours and seven sixes in 120 balls. His 136-run partnership for the second wicket with Rohit Sharma gave the team a strong start. India scored 349 for eight on the batting-friendly pitch of the JSCA Stadium.
Acting captain KL Rahul added 60 runs in 56 balls, while Ravindra Jadeja made a crucial contribution in strengthening the score by scoring 32 runs in 20 balls in the last overs.