In a post-match bombshell that has cricket fans buzzing, Virat Kohli has firmly put an end to all speculation about a potential Test cricket comeback. After his blistering 135-run knock powered India to a thrilling 17-run victory over South Africa in the first ODI at Ranchi's JSCA International Stadium, the batting maestro confirmed he'll stick exclusively to the 50-over format.
This emphatic statement comes just days after India's 0-2 Test series loss to the Proteas sparked wild rumors of Kohli reversing his 2022 red-ball retirement.
Kohli, already retired from T20Is, looked every bit the ODI king on Sunday. His 120-ball innings, laced with 11 fours and seven massive sixes, anchored India to a formidable 349/8 on a batsman-friendly pitch.
The highlight? A match-defining 136-run second-wicket stand with skipper Rohit Sharma, who chipped in with a brisk 57 off 51. Acting captain KL Rahul added a steady 60 off 56, while all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja's late fireworks—32 off 20—pushed the total beyond South Africa's reach.
Chasing 350, South Africa crumbled under pressure, folding at 332 all out. India's bowling attack fired on all cylinders, with debutant pacer Harshit Rana claiming 3/65 and wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav spinning a web with his career-best 4/43.
It was Kohli's day through and through—he walked away with Player of the Match honors and even shattered a record held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar during his stay at the crease. (Also read: [Virat Kohli breaks Sachin Tendulkar's record during Ranchi innings](link-to-article))
Speaking to reporters afterward, Kohli opened up on his mindset, emphasizing mental strength over endless drills. "I've never been a big believer in a lot of preparation," he said with a grin.
"All my cricket has been mental. As long as I feel mentally sharp, I grind physically every day—it's just how I live now, not just for cricket." On his Ranchi gem, he added, "It was just me and the ball, enjoying the game that got me started. When you get a start, experience takes over—you read the situation and build from there."
The 36-year-old was equally direct about his future: "Yes, that's how it's always going to be. I'm just playing one form of the game." This shuts the door on Test return talks, allowing him to channel all energy into ODIs leading up to the 2027 World Cup.
Team India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak echoed the sentiment, dismissing any doubts about Kohli's longevity. "Why question Virat's 2027 availability when he's batting like this and staying so fit?" Kotak said in the presser. "It was a fantastic innings—he took responsibility and shone. His form and fitness are top-notch. No questions there." He praised the leadership duo of Rohit and Kohli for mentoring youngsters on and off the field, adding that the focus remains on the present amid the three-match series.
With a 1-0 lead, India eyes a clean sweep in Gwalior next. Kohli's clarity brings stability to a transitioning side, proving the chase master still has plenty of fire left. Fans, breathe easy—King Kohli's ODI throne is secure.
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