India sealed a memorable ODI series victory over South Africa, winning the three-match contest 2-1. The decider in Visakhapatnam saw India dominate with a nine-wicket win, showcasing both batting depth and bowling discipline. The series was closely fought, but India’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure ensured they came out on top.
Virat Kohli was the standout performer throughout the series, amassing 302 runs at an average of 151. He struck two centuries — a commanding 135 in Ranchi and a fluent 102 in Raipur — before finishing with an unbeaten 65 in the final ODI. His consistency and hunger for runs not only anchored India’s batting but also lifted the team’s morale at crucial junctures. This performance earned him his 12th Player of the Series award in ODIs, placing him just behind Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 15.
Reflecting on his form, Kohli admitted that this series marked one of his best phases in recent years. He spoke about feeling mentally free and enjoying his batting, which translated into his commanding performances on the field. His resurgence is a reminder of his enduring class and ability to rise to big occasions, even after years of international cricket.
The victory not only highlights India’s dominance in limited-overs cricket but also sets the tone for upcoming fixtures. With Kohli back in peak form and the team showing balance across departments, India’s ODI campaign looks promising. Fans will remember this series not just for the scoreline, but for Kohli’s artistry with the bat and the team’s collective spirit in overcoming a strong South African challenge
