Virat Kohli has made it clear that he will continue to play in just one format following his match-winning century in the first ODI against South Africa. Virat Kohli struck a spellbinding 120-ball 135 to help India post a massive total of 349/8. In reply, India rode on Kuldeep Yadav's four-fer to restrict South Africa to 332 to take 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
I'm just playing one form of the game: Virat Kohli
Right after the match, veteran cricket commentator and presenter Harsha Bhogle inquired Kohli whether he will continue to limit himself to just one format, to which the batting juggernaut clearly stated:
"That's how it's always going to be - I'm just playing one form of the game. If you've played 300-odd games and so much cricket, you know when you're hitting balls in practice, you know the reflexes are there and the physical ability is there to bat long. As long as you're hitting the ball well and playing good cricket, it's about physically fit, mentally ready and excited".
After India's embarrassing 0-2 Test series defeat against South Africa, speculations started floating around Kohli might reconsider his retirement from the longest format, having already retired from T20Is. But Kohli's recent remark shut all the debate around any chance of him coming back to Test cricket.
Virat Kohli's match-winning century in India's triumph over South Africa
Kohli was a force to be reckoned with his 52nd ODI century, which was studded with 11 fours and seven sixes. This knock marked his 83rd international century overall and was particularly significant as it came immediately after he registered back-to-back ducks during the preceding series against Australia. The magnitude of the achievement was reflected in the electric atmosphere inside the stadium, which was matched by Kohli’s energetic celebration, complete with his signature leap and aggressive fist pump.
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Virat Kohli shatters Sachin Tendulkar's big record
Beyond his individual score, Kohli's 52nd ODI hundred achieved a historic milestone as he officially surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most centuries by a batter in a single format of the game. He eclipsed the legendary opener’s tally of 51 Test hundreds, firmly establishing a new record in ODI cricket.
Kohli was adjudged player of the match for his spectacular knock.
"Today was really nice to kind of get into the game like that. Pitch played decently in the first 20-25 overs before it started to slow down. Was just about staying in the space of enjoyment. Of course when you get a start, you get into the situation, you know what needs to be done. The experience kicks in. I've never been a believer of preparation. All my preparation is mental. As long as my physical levels are up and the mental sharpness is there, then you know it's fine. I took a day off before the game. I'm 37 and need time for recovery," Kohli concluded.
Meanwhile, the second ODI between India and South Africa will be played in New Raipur on December 3.