Virat Kohli continued his superb ODI form, bringing up yet another half-century in the second ODI against South Africa in Raipur. The former India captain reached his 76th ODI fifty — and fourth of the year — with a trademark drive off Lungi Ngidi in the 25th over.
Ngidi delivered a fullish ball outside off, and Kohli eased it to sweeper cover for a single, triggering loud “Kohli! Kohli!” chants across the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium. The 36-year-old, who scored a century in Ranchi, has looked in complete command once again, rarely putting a foot wrong.
At the time of his milestone, India moved to 156/2 in 24.3 overs, with Kohli batting on 50 off 47 balls (3 fours, 1 six, SR 106.38), while Ruturaj Gaikwad remained steady at the other end on 51 off 54 balls.
The duo has stitched together a crucial 94-run stand off 89 balls, keeping India in control after early wickets and pushing the run rate comfortably above six.
Kohli’s fluent touch and aggressive intent have lifted the innings, and with both set batters still out there, India look well placed to build a formidable total.
