Virat Kohli has once again stamped his authority as one of the most formidable batsmen in modern cricket, delivering back-to-back centuries in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. The Indian batting maestro followed up his brilliant comeback hundred in Ranchi with another sublime ton in Raipur, showcasing a masterclass in consistency and chasing excellence.
Kohli's Raipur Masterclass: Intent and Precision
At the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, Kohli was in complete control. Reaching his century off a mere 90 balls, his innings was a blend of powerful strokeplay and sharp running between the wickets. The landmark moment arrived in his signature style—a quick single off South African bowler Marco Jansen that sent the crowd into a frenzy. The stadium erupted with chants of "Kohli! Kohli!" as the star batsman raised his bat, acknowledging the electric support from fans witnessing another chapter of his legendary career.
A Record of Unmatched Consistency
This latest feat has propelled Kohli to a staggering world record. He now boasts 11 separate streaks of scoring hundreds in two or more consecutive ODI innings. This achievement places him far ahead of the next best, the legendary AB de Villiers, who managed the feat six times. This statistic underlines not just Kohli's skill but his extraordinary ability to maintain peak performance repeatedly, a rarity in the demanding format of one-day internationals.
His century in the first ODI at Ranchi was equally crucial, where his superb 135 runs from 120 deliveries powered India to a 17-run victory. The back-to-back performances have been built on a foundation of impeccable rhythm, clear intent, and flawless shot selection, proving he remains the cornerstone of India's batting lineup.
Reinforcing a Legacy of Greatness
Kohli's return to the ODI format after a break has been nothing short of spectacular. These innings against a top-tier side like South Africa reinforce his status as one of the game's most reliable run-machines. His hunger for big scores and ability to perform under pressure continues to be a massive asset for the Indian team as they build momentum. The series has now become a showcase of his enduring class, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe of his sustained dominance in white-ball cricket.
