Virat Kohli produced a stunning throwback burst in the 38th over of India’s chase against South Africa, smashing Ottneil Baartman for a four and a six to race into his 50s.
The over began with a commanding boundary — a half-volley drilled straight down the ground — which brought up Kohli’s fifty off just 42 balls. Gautam Gambhir, on commentary, applauded the shot with “no smiles this time,” acknowledging the purity of the stroke.
One ball later, Kohli went even bigger. Baartman delivered a full slower ball, and Kohli effortlessly launched it over deep mid-wicket for six — prompting the commentary to declare:
“This is Kohli of 2016. Turning the clock back. Peak Kohli.”
With this burst, the Kohli–Jaiswal stand surged to 98 runs, putting India within touching distance of the target. India now need just 18 runs from 69 balls.
