The recently concluded ODI series between India and South Africa once again proved why Virat Kohli is considered one of the greatest modern-day cricketers. With a total of 302 runs in the series, Kohli carried India to a convincing 2-1 victory.
His outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Series award—the 20th time in his international career.
This means Kohli has now gone past Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 19 Player of the Series awards in men’s international cricket.
“I also go through self-doubt” — Kohli’s honest revelation
During the post-match presentation, Kohli opened his heart in a rare and honest way. He said that the kind of batting rhythm he felt in this series was something he had been missing for the last couple of years.
He explained:
“Sometimes you start doubting yourself. Fear takes over your mind and you get lost in your own thoughts. But when you play an innings like this, when the big shots connect, your confidence comes back.”
Kohli also mentioned that the century he scored in Ranchi was special.
After a month-long break without any match practice, that innings helped him recover his rhythm and gave him belief for the rest of the series.
Rohit & Virat — Two pillars of Indian cricket
Kohli also spoke about his bond with Rohit Sharma. According to him, both players want the same thing: to contribute match-winning innings for India.
For 15–16 years, Rohit and Kohli have been the backbone of Indian cricket.
Even today, at the age of 37 and 38, both are winning Player of the Series awards while playing alongside a new generation of young players. Their consistency keeps raising the standard for everyone in the squad.
Just think about it — when the team is full of talented youngsters, two players near the end of their careers are still leading from the front. That is what greatness looks like.
Criticism answered with the bat
On the Australia tour, Kohli registered two straight ducks in the first two ODIs. Critics raised questions, social media filled with opinions, and many felt his best days were behind him.
But the third match brought a half-century.
And then came South Africa — two centuries, one fifty, and a total domination over the bowlers.
In his last four ODIs:
- 2 Centuries
- 2 Half-centuries
People questioned his long stay in London, his training schedule, and his rhythm.
Kohli answered everything in the best way a player can — through performance.
He said his passion for cricket and his commitment to preparation never reduces, no matter where he lives or how much time he spends away from the game.
The transformation of Virat Kohli
There was a time when Kohli’s identity was built on aggression, bold words, and raw energy on the field.
Today, he appears calmer, more spiritual, and more reflective.
He believes that:
“Through batting, I understand myself better. It helps me grow as a human being.”
This is a very different version of Kohli — deeply aware, mature, and still hungry for runs.
Not a comeback — it’s a continuation
Many are calling this a comeback story.
But the truth is, Kohli never went anywhere. He was always there — working, thinking, evolving. Form may have fluctuated, but greatness stayed intact.
What we saw in this series reminded the world of the 2016–17 era Kohli, when he dominated every bowling attack he faced.
Now again, he is scoring runs in a way that seems effortless and natural — playing with freedom, clarity, and purpose.
Best Shoes Under ₹2000 in India (2025): Affordable, Stylish & Comfort-Focused Picks
Follow us on Instagram [@Sportsnewsxpress] for live updates, news