In a fiery start to the second innings in Ranchi, Virat Kohli was seen bringing the entire Indian team together for an intense pep talk after South Africa slipped to 53/3 in just 10.5 overs during the first ODI. The moment came right after India’s bowlers dismantled the Proteas’ top order, putting the visitors under immense pressure in their chase of 350.
South Africa lost Aiden Markram for 7, followed by back-to-back ducks from Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock, courtesy of Harshit Rana’s dream opening spell and Arshdeep Singh’s precision with the new ball.
As the third wicket fell—Markram caught behind by KL Rahul—broadcast visuals showed Kohli calling the players into a tight huddle. Animated and charged, the former captain was seen motivating the bowlers and fielders with a short but powerful message, urging the team to maintain intensity and not let the pressure slip.
The pep talk seemed timed perfectly, coming just when Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke were looking to settle in. Kohli’s body language, nods, and pumped-up gestures reflected the urgency India needed to carry forward after a dominant start.
With the Proteas still needing 297 runs, the early breakthroughs and Kohli’s rallying call have set the tone for a gripping chase at the JSCA Stadium.
