Virat Kohli Made a sensational return to ODI cricket by choosing his favorite innings in India’s 2-1 series win over South Africa – a series in which he scored 135, 102 and 65 not out and earned his 20th Player of the Series award in international cricket.
Virat Kohli regains his brilliant series-winning form against South Africa
The 36-year-old admitted that the three-match competition marked his most complete batting performance in many years, describing the experience as “Freedom” And “Deeply gratifying.”
“The way I have played in this series has been the most gratifying thing for me,” Kohli said after India Vizag wins by nine wickets in decider, “I don’t think I’ve played at this level for the last 2-3 years. I feel really free with my mind. The whole game is coming together well.”
In the entire series, Kohli hit 12 sixes, more than any other batsman, indicating a new aggressive trend. He said that he deliberately pushed his scoring limits, allowing himself to take more calculated risks.
Kohli reveals his best innings in South Africa ODI series
Although all three innings were decisive, Kohli scored 135 runs in RanchiHis 52nd ODI century, in exceptional form. That knock set up India’s close 17-run win in the series opener and helped unlock the rhythm they felt was missing from their game.
“I hadn’t played a game since Australia,” Kohli said. “Coming out and starting to hit the ball well – you just know when your energy is right on the day. It gives you the confidence to take risks. When they come, it opens up that zone as a batsman that you crave for. Ranchi was very special because it opened me up in a way I hadn’t felt for a while.”
Kohli explained that the emotional and technical clarity he felt in Ranchi continued throughout the series, allowing him to bat with fluency and power.
Kohli opens up about his mental battle against batting
Reflecting on a career spanning nearly 16 years, Kohli admitted that even the greatest players experience periods of uncertainty.
“When you play for so long, you have phases where you doubt your ability,” He said. “As a batsman you are counting on one mistake – that’s all it takes. So you get to a place where you think maybe you are not good. The nerves take over. That’s the beauty of the game.”
Kohli said overcoming fear is part of the craft: “Every ball you play, and ultimately every long innings, helps you get back into that confidence zone. It’s a journey of learning and knowing yourself better.”
He said batting has played a major role in shaping who he is: “It makes you better as a person. Your nature becomes more balanced. Yes, I have had phases where I have doubted myself, and I’m not ashamed to admit that. It’s human.”
With his form peaking again, Kohli’s recent performances suggest a revitalized chapter in his ODI journey – and a reminder of why he remains one of cricket’s most dangerous big men.
Also read: When will Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play their next match for Team India?