The King still rules: Virat Kohli reminds the world who’s the boss

Virat Kohli once again reminded the cricketing world who he is on the field. On a charged evening in Ranchi, the Indian maestro produced a breathtaking, emotionally charged ODI century, his 52nd to silence critics, stun South Africa, and electrify a packed JSCA Stadium. 

In the only international format he now plays, Kohli delivered a masterclass filled with finesse, authority, and vintage aggression.

A Statement Innings From the ODI Legend

Kohli, now retired from Tests and T20Is, crafted a magnificent 135 off 120 balls, smashing 11 fours and seven towering sixes. The innings showcased his complete range, early stability, middle-over control, and a late onslaught that lifted India to 349/8 in 50 overs.

His 136-run stand with skipper Rohit Sharma (57 off 51) laid a rock-solid platform before Kohli took full charge, reaffirming his position as India’s most dependable ODI batter.

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Ravi Shastri’s Fiery On-Air Tribute

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who never shy with big statements, delivered a passionate on-air salute.

“It is number 52. Gets it with a boundary. Punches the air in delight. This is the format he plays now and he would have silenced a lot of people,” Shastri declared as Kohli raised his bat to a roaring crowd.

Shastri praised the timing, composure, and intent that defined the innings, calling it 'a brilliant knock' and 'a reminder of who he is.'

However, according to sources, the top brass of the Indian cricket board will sit with the head coach Gautam Gambhir and the chief selector Ajit Agarkar after the third ODI against South Africa. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli want to play the global tournament, but the decision-makers have refused to confirm their place, considering the World Cup is still far away. 

There are speculations that the team management is working on identifying the backup players in case the two don’t make it to the ICC event.

Kohli’s ODI Importance Only Grows

With India set to play just six ODIs in the next eight months, every knock from Kohli now carries heightened significance. And on Sunday, he delivered a message loud and clear: the King still rules.

As the match stands, South Africa are 206/5, chasing India’s formidable total. With form, hunger, and confidence flowing, fans eagerly await what King Kohli will produce in the remaining two ODIs of the series.