The first match of the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa was played at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi. In this match, India defeated South Africa by 17 runs, thanks to a brilliant century from former cricket captain Virat Kohli. Kohli batted brilliantly, scoring the 52nd century of his ODI career, for which he was also named Player of the Match.
Kohli commented on playing domestic cricket
During the presentation, Virat also commented on the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to force all players to play domestic cricket. “I’ve never believed in over-preparing. My game has always been mental. As long as I feel good mentally, I can play,” Kohli said.
Now the question arises that if he doesn’t believe much in preparation, will playing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi add any special value to his game? Kohli further said , “I work very hard physically every day. Now it has nothing to do with cricket. It is just my way of life. As long as my fitness is maintained and mental sharpness is there, you visualize yourself and see yourself running fast, reacting to the ball quickly. Then you know everything is fine.”
I need time to recover
He said, “The way I played in the match was pleasing. The pitch was good for the first 20-25 overs. After that, it started slowing down. But, when you get a good start, you get into a position to know how to play. Experience comes in handy. I never believe in preparation. All my preparation is mental.”
India won a thrilling match
Talking about the match, India, batting first, scored 349 runs for 8 wickets in 50 overs. Apart from Virat Kohli’s 135, Rohit Sharma scored 57 and captain KL Rahul scored 60 runs. Ravindra Jadeja scored 32 runs. Despite innings of 72 from Matthew Brietzke, 70 from Marco Jansen with the help of 3 sixes and 8 fours in 39 balls and 67 runs from Corbin Bosch with the help of 6 sixes and 5 fours in 51 balls, South Africa was reduced to 332 runs in 49.2 overs and lost the match by 17 runs.