Virat Kohli etched his name in history by scoring his 52nd ODI century during India's first match against South Africa in Ranchi, breaking Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most centuries in a single international format. The innings helped India secure a 17-run victory and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. South African bowler Marco Jansen shared mixed feelings about facing the Indian star.
In a thrilling opener at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, Virat Kohli delivered a masterful performance, smashing his 52nd One Day International century against South Africa. This landmark knock surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record of 51 centuries in Tests, making Kohli the holder of the most hundreds in any single format of international cricket. Prior to this match, Kohli was level with Tendulkar at 51 ODI tons; now, he stands alone at the top with 52 in ODIs.
Kohli's achievement also marked his sixth ODI century against South Africa, eclipsing the five each held by Tendulkar and David Warner. Additionally, it was his 25th ODI hundred on home soil, a first in the 50-over format. The innings proved pivotal as India posted a competitive total, defending it successfully to win by 17 runs and claim a 1-0 series lead.
South Africa's Marco Jansen, who grew up idolizing Kohli on television, reflected on the challenge post-match. 'Bowling to him is fun yet annoying,' Jansen admitted, highlighting the difficulty and enjoyment of facing the Indian batter. For context, the updated list of most centuries in a single format now reads: Virat Kohli with 52 in ODIs, Sachin Tendulkar with 51 in Tests, Tendulkar with 49 in ODIs, Jacques Kallis with 45 in Tests, and Ricky Ponting with 41 in Tests.
This victory sets the stage for the remaining two ODIs, with Kohli's form likely to influence India's campaign.