Virat Kohli is primed for a significant performance as India prepares to face South Africa in the first ODI of a three-match series. The opening match will take place at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on December 1, 2023, and is scheduled to run until December 6. Kohli, now 36 years old, aims to capitalize on his revitalized form after a recent ODI tour of Australia, which ended with a commendable 74 not out.
Kohli’s Stellar ODI Record Against South Africa
Kohli’s performance against South Africa has been exceptional. In 31 ODIs against the Proteas, he has accumulated 1,504 runs at an impressive average of 65.39. His record includes:
- Five centuries
- Eight half-centuries
- Highest score of 160 (achieved in Cape Town, 2018)
Only two players have scored more runs than Kohli in ODIs between India and South Africa: Jacques Kallis (1,535 runs) and Sachin Tendulkar (2,001 runs).
Ranchi: A Venue of Triumph for Kohli
Kohli has enjoyed remarkable success at the Ranchi venue. In five matches there, he has scored 384 runs in just four innings, boasting an astonishing average of 192.00. This record includes:
- Two centuries
- One fifty
His last appearance at Ranchi was against Australia, where he made a striking 123 off 95 balls, despite no other Indian batsman surpassing 40 runs.
Approaching a Major Milestone
The upcoming series also presents Kohli with the chance to achieve a significant career milestone. He is currently 337 runs short of reaching 28,000 runs in international cricket. If he accomplishes this feat during the series, he will join the illustrious ranks of Kumar Sangakkara and Sachin Tendulkar.
Currently, Kohli has scored 27,673 runs from 553 matches, maintaining an average of 52.21, with 82 centuries and 144 half-centuries. In 2025 alone, he has amassed 349 runs in 10 ODIs at an average of 43.62, including one century and three fifties.
