Harsha Bhogle shared details of a chat he had with Virat Kohli before asking him about his possible return to Test cricket, following India’s win in the 1st ODI against South Africa. Kohli once again stood tall with the bat, smashing a stunning 135 off 120 balls, including 11 boundaries and 7 sixes.

The veteran batter earned his 44th ODI Player of the Match honour in India’s 17-run triumph. When Harsha Bhogle questioned him on a potential Test comeback, Kohli brushed aside the talk, remarking that he intends to play only one format going forward.

Even though the moment appeared spontaneous, Bhogle explained afterwards that he had first confirmed with Kohli whether he was comfortable addressing the subject of a Test cricket reversal.

“I had asked him before if he would be comfortable if I slipped that in,” said Bhogle while replying to a fan query.

“Yes, and that’s the way it will always be. I’m focused on playing only one format of the game,” Kohli responded when asked about his plans to focus exclusively on ODIs.

Kohli displayed his classic form, registering his 52nd ODI century and third at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. His brilliant knock played a key role in India’s 17-run win, earning him the Player of the Match.

Kohli announced his retirement from the longest format earlier this year before the tour of England. According to reports and former players, the veteran was forced to retire from the selection committee and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Meanwhile, Kohli’s place in the ODI team is not certain after it was revealed that the BCCI, Gambhir and Agarkar will soon take a call on his future.