Virat Kohli delivered an impressive performance with the bat in the opening ODI of the three-match series between India and South Africa at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi on Sunday, November 30. The right-hander started confidently, hitting a boundary off the very first ball he faced and maintaining an attacking approach throughout.
After smashing a six off Nandre Burger, he struck another maximum off Ottneil Baartman in the latter’s first over. The remarkable shot came in the 10th over of India’s innings. Baartman bowled a length delivery around the off stump, and Kohli advanced down the pitch, created room, and lofted the ball over mid-off with excellent timing, clearing the boundary comfortably.
You can watch the video here:
https://www.bcci.tv/bccilink/videos/gub446RU
Virat Kohli regained his rhythm in his most recent ODI against Australia, scoring an unbeaten 74 off 81 deliveries. This innings marked a strong comeback for him after recording two consecutive ducks.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Stabilize India After Early Dismissal of Yashasvi Jaiswal
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma helped stabilize India’s innings after South African pacer Nandre Burger sent Yashasvi Jaiswal back to the pavilion, caught behind by Quinton de Kock for 18 off 16 balls. At the time of reporting, India were 94/1 after 12 overs, with Kohli batting on 37 off 32 deliveries and Rohit on 27 off 24.
The pair will look to deliver another impactful partnership, having guided India to a nine-wicket victory in their previous match against Australia. Notably, KL Rahul is captaining the side in the absence of Shubman Gill, who is out due to a neck injury. Along with Jaiswal, India have included Ruturaj Gaikwad in the playing XI.
Gaikwad is likely serving as cover for Shreyas Iyer, who is still recovering from the injury he sustained during the Australia tour. On the South African side, Aiden Markram is leading the team as regular captain Temba Bavuma has been rested. Prenelan Subrayen has also been included in place of Keshav Maharaj, who has been given rest.
South Africa have not won an ODI series in India since the 2015–16 tour, where they secured a 3–2 win. India claimed the most recent home ODI series against South Africa 2–1 in 2022/23. KL Rahul last captained India to a 2–1 away series victory in South Africa in the 2023/24 ODI series.
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