Following the first ODI against South Africa, cricket pundit Harsha Bhogle gave a brief account of his conversation with Virat Kohli before asking him about reports of a Test comeback. A stunning 135 off 120 balls with 11 fours and seven sixes was the seasoned batter’s latest game-winning effort.
After India’s close victory of 17 runs, Kohli was named Player of the Match (POTM) for the 44th time in ODI history. When Bhogle questioned him about rumours of a possible comeback to red-ball cricket, the 37-year-old quickly rejected the notion and reaffirmed his intention to concentrate only on the 50-over game. Although it appeared that Kohli was temporarily taken aback by the question, Bhogle subsequently explained that he had consulted with Kohli in advance to make sure he felt comfortable answering it.
Bhogle replied to a fan question on X by writing, “I had asked him before if he would be comfortable if I slipped that in.”
I had asked him before if he would be comfortable if I slipped that in….. https://t.co/DhXOZNVgYI
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 30, 2025
Yes, and things will always be that way. “I’m only playing one version of the game,” Kohli stated during his post-match remarks.
At the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, Kohli celebrated his third ODI century and 52nd overall, looking in excellent form. After hitting a boundary off the opening ball of his innings, he looked his best, moving around the ground with a series of graceful strokes. He lofted a six straight down the ground after hitting a straight drive off Nandre Burger for his second boundary.
The seasoned batter then changed tactics and began a barrage of forceful strikes. Ottneil Baartman was sent flying over long distance for a spectacular six when he stepped out to him. With another massive six over deep mid-wicket, Kohli reached his 76th ODI fifty in 48 balls.
Along with Rohit Sharma, who scored 57 off 51 balls and broke the global record for the most sixes in ODI history, he was part of a dominant 136-run partnership off just 109 deliveries for the second wicket. As he proceeded to lead India’s innings, Kohli eventually reached his century off 102 balls, leading Marco Jansen past third man for four.
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