Kohli breaks down batting masterclass against South Africa

Monday, 8 December 2025 00:59 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Virat Kohli

A standout feature from India’s 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa saw Virat Kohli forge a memorable series display.

The 37-year-old amassed a staggering 302 runs from three outings, averaging a stellar 151, and was named the Player of the Series as the leading run-getter. This included two consecutive centuries (135 and 102) and an unbeaten 65* in the series decider.

“Honestly, just playing the way I have in this series has been the most satisfying thing for me,” Kohli said afterwards. “I don’t think I have played at this level for a good 2-3 years now, and I feel really free in my mind. Just the whole game is coming together nicely.”

“Very exciting to build on. And something that I have always tried to do as a player, kind of maintain my own standards that I have set for myself and play at the level that I can make an impact for the team. And I know when I can bat like that out there in the middle, then it of course helps the team in a big way because I can bat long, I can bat according to the situation,” he added.

A particular feature of Kohli’s batting throughout the series was his ability to score boundaries at a brisk rate. The right-hander finished with more fours (24) and sixes (12) than any other batter from across the two sides.

Heading into the third ODI, with all to play for, Kohli believes, helped India bring out their best against a strong Proteas side.

India will next feature in a five-match T20I series against South Africa starting 9 December.