Overview
- India beat South Africa by 17 runs in the first ODI in Ranchi, driven by Virat Kohli’s 135—his 52nd ODI century—and a 136‑run stand with Rohit Sharma, who made 57.
- Asked on live TV about reversing his Test retirement, Kohli replied, “Yes, that’s how it’s always going to be. I’m just playing one form of the game.”
- BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the board has not approached Kohli about a Test return and urged people not to give weight to rumours.
- Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said there is no reason to question Kohli’s ODI future, stressing his performance and fitness and brushing aside talk about 2027.
- Unverified reports and viral clips hinting at friction with head coach Gautam Gambhir circulated in Indian media, with a suggested meeting before the second ODI reported but not confirmed.