Virat Kohli didn’t just play a century—he reminded the world why he’s still the most feared batsman in limited-overs cricket. On December 12, 2023, at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, Kohli smashed his 52nd ODI hundred, guiding India to 349 for eight after electing to bat first. South Africa, despite a spirited middle-order fight, fell short by 17 runs, handing India a crucial win in the first match of their three-match ODI series. The victory wasn’t just about runs; it was a statement. At 35, Kohli is playing with a calm, calculated fury that leaves bowlers guessing and fans breathless.
From Ranchi to Raipur: The Series Momentum
The second ODI is set for Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. With a 65,000-seat capacity, the stadium is expected to be packed—not just for the cricket, but for the spectacle. Rohit Sharma, 36, is back in the playing XI after a brief absence, adding experience and firepower at the top. His presence alongside Kohli isn’t just tactical; it’s emotional. Two legends, one batting order, one mission: win the series.
The Indian squad, selected by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), blends youth and veterans in a way that feels both strategic and symbolic. Yashasvi Jaiswal, 21, opens with Ruturaj Gaikwad, 27, while Rishabh Pant, 26, provides explosive backup behind the stumps. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, also 35, remains the glue—his left-arm spin and gritty lower-order batting are irreplaceable. And then there’s Arshdeep Singh, 24, whose left-arm swing has become a death-over weapon, and Kuldeep Yadav, 29, whose wrist spin continues to bamboozle international batsmen.
South Africa’s Struggles and Resilience
South Africa’s top order collapsed like a house of cards. In the very second over, openers Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock were both dismissed for ducks—de Kock, the former captain, looking uncharacteristically tentative. Stand-in skipper Aiden Markram, 29, tried to steady the ship but was bowled for just 18 before the fifth over ended. The collapse was brutal. But then came the fight. David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen stitched a 120-run partnership, showing why South Africa remains a dangerous side even in transition. Still, their 332 for nine wasn’t enough. The target was too high. The pitch too slow. The Indian bowlers too disciplined.
Harshit Rana, the 23-year-old fast bowler making his ODI debut in this series, was a revelation in Ranchi. His pace and accuracy in the powerplay restricted South Africa’s early momentum. He’s now the player to watch in Raipur. And while South Africa’s full squad details remain sparse, their reliance on Markram as captain—without the injured Temba Bavuma—raises questions about leadership depth.
Why This Series Matters Beyond the Scoreboard
This isn’t just a friendly series. It’s part of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League, a qualifying pathway to the 2027 World Cup in South Africa. Every win, every point, counts. India, currently ranked third in the league table, needs to stay ahead of teams like Pakistan and New Zealand. South Africa, meanwhile, is rebuilding. Their last World Cup appearance ended in disappointment. They need wins to rebuild confidence—and points.
The series also marks a quiet transition in Indian cricket. KL Rahul, 31, is captaining the side in the absence of Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah, both resting ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Rahul’s leadership has been calm, effective. He’s not just keeping wickets—he’s managing egos, balancing form, and giving younger players space to breathe. The team’s balance—four pace bowlers, two spinners, and five top-order batsmen—reflects a modern ODI template: aggressive, adaptable, and deeply experienced.
The Bigger Picture: 2025 and Beyond
While this series ends in Raipur, the next chapter is already written. In November-December 2025, South Africa will return to India for a two-Test, three-ODI tour. The third ODI of that series is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. That ground, with its 25,000 seats and modern floodlights, will likely be the stage for another generational clash. Will Kohli still be playing? Will Rishabh Pant be captain? Will Jaiswal be the new face of Indian cricket? We don’t know. But we’ll be watching.
For now, the focus is on Raipur. The crowd will roar. The TV screens will glow. And somewhere in the stands, a 12-year-old will watch Kohli’s cover drive and decide—right then—that he wants to be a cricketer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Virat Kohli still playing ODI cricket at 35?
Kohli remains in the ODI squad because his form and consistency still outpace most of his peers. His 52nd century in Ranchi was his first in 14 innings—a sign he’s rediscovering rhythm. Unlike many who retire early, Kohli trains with the intensity of a teenager, and his mental resilience keeps him ahead of the curve. The BCCI sees him as both a performer and a mentor for younger batsmen.
Who is leading India in this series, and why not Rohit Sharma?
KL Rahul is captaining the side because Rohit Sharma is being managed ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, with rest and workload control prioritized. Rahul, an experienced opener and wicketkeeper, has led India in 12 ODIs with a 75% win rate. His calm demeanor suits the current squad’s blend of veterans and newcomers, making him the ideal bridge between eras.
How is this series connected to the 2027 Cricket World Cup?
Every bilateral ODI between full ICC members contributes points to the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League. India currently holds 108 points, placing them in the top five for direct qualification. A win in Raipur would push them closer to securing a spot without needing to go through qualifiers. South Africa, with only 72 points, needs wins to stay in contention.
Where can fans watch the India vs South Africa ODI series live?
All three matches are being broadcast live on the Star Sports network across India and streamed digitally via JioHotstar. International viewers can access the matches through the ICC’s digital partners, including Willow TV in the US and SuperSport in South Africa. The BCCI ensures all matches are available in HD with multiple commentary options, including Hindi and English.
Why is the third ODI of the 2025 series being played in Visakhapatnam?
Visakhapatnam’s ACA-VDCA Stadium was chosen for its modern infrastructure and neutral location in South India, helping distribute cricket’s popularity beyond traditional hubs like Mumbai or Delhi. The ground has hosted 12 ODIs since 2016 and consistently draws large crowds. Its pitch offers balance—neither too slow nor too fast—making it ideal for high-stakes matches.
What’s the significance of Harshit Rana being a key player to watch?
Harshit Rana, a 23-year-old fast bowler from Uttar Pradesh, made his ODI debut in Ranchi and took 2 wickets for 48 runs in his first match. His ability to generate pace and movement off the deck makes him a threat in powerplays. With Bumrah and Shami resting, Rana could be India’s long-term replacement. His performance in Raipur may determine whether he stays in the squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup.