Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan praised veteran batter Virat Kohli after his match-defining century helped India secure a 17-run victory over South Africa in the first ODI of the three-match series in Ranchi on Sunday, November 30.

Pathan noted that the innings showcased two distinct sides of the former Indian captain. Amidst ongoing discussions about his ODI future ahead of the 2027 World Cup, Kohli continued to mesmerise fans and selectors, scoring his 52nd ODI century and setting the record for the most centuries in a single format by a batter.

“If you see the innings, you will notice two Virat Kohlis, one an aggressor in the powerplay, and the other after the powerplay, when wickets were falling.

Then he became an adamant batter who was not ready to give up his wicket. This happens when you have got a lot of experience, and Virat Kohli has a lot of experience, he has fitness,” said Pathan on his YouTube channel.

However, Pathan felt that some of India’s other batters missed opportunities to make an impact. Ruturaj Gaikwad, returning to the ODI side, managed only 8 off 14 balls, while Washington Sundar, promoted to No. 5, was dismissed for 13. Despite this, Pathan expressed his delight at the continued strong form of India’s senior batters.

“Ruturaj Gaikwad and Washington Sundar wasted their opportunities. The way the Indian team performed in this match, one thing is certain, the form that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are carrying, I am really enjoying it.

I hope they continue playing as much as possible,” said Pathan.

Rohit Sharma contributed 57 off 51 balls, including five fours and three sixes, while Kohli scored 135 off 120 balls, with 11 fours and seven sixes. The two legendary batters stitched together a crucial second-wicket partnership of 136 runs. Indian stand-in captain KL Rahul added 60, helping India post 349/8 in 50 overs. The Men in Blue remained patient and bowled with discipline in the latter part of the innings, with Kuldeep Yadav taking 4/68 to close out South Africa’s innings.