Tilak Varma Hails Virat Kohli’s Century in Ranchi ODI Against South Africa
New Delhi, December 01 — India batter Tilak Varma praised former captain Virat Kohli after witnessing his match-winning century against South Africa during the opening ODI in Ranchi on Sunday. Kohli scored a magnificent 135 off 120 balls, marking his 83rd international century and 52nd ODI ton, helping India take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.
Walking in early after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal in the fourth over, Kohli anchored India’s innings with complete control, confidence and sharp stroke play. His knock powered India to a 17-run victory at the JSCA International Stadium.
Speaking to bcci.tv, Tilak Varma said he felt “lucky” to witness the century from close range. He called Kohli’s innings one of the best he had ever seen live.
Kohli, who has been India’s most consistent performer for over a decade, once again showed his class under pressure. With early wickets falling, he rebuilt the innings, rotated strike smoothly, and accelerated at the right moments. His ton came at a time when South Africa were building momentum, turning the tide back in India’s favour.
Varma said Kohli’s consistency across 17 years of international cricket continues to inspire every young player in the team.
Tilak Varma highlighted how much he has learnt from watching Kohli bat.
He said, “It's a pleasure to watch Virat bhai live. I will keep talking to him and learn as much as I can. If I get an opportunity in the coming games, I will try to use those learnings.”
The Indian dressing room has always spoken about the impact of Kohli’s intense work ethic, fitness standards and mental toughness. Sunday’s knock was another example of why he remains India’s biggest match-winner in white-ball cricket.
Cricket analysts praised Kohli’s temperament and his ability to build an innings under pressure. Fans on social media celebrated the century, calling it “classic Kohli” and “a masterclass in ODI batting.”
India and South Africa will meet again on Wednesday at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. India will look to take an unassailable 2–0 lead, while South Africa will aim to level the series.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
Virat Kohli’s superb century in Ranchi once again highlighted his unmatched experience and ability to perform when India needs him most. Young players like Tilak Varma continue to draw learning and inspiration from his consistency, fitness and mindset. The series now heads to Raipur, where India will aim to secure the series early. As fans celebrate Kohli’s landmark 83rd international ton, his influence on the next generation of Indian cricketers remains stronger than ever. Performances like these remind cricket lovers why Kohli continues to be one of the most dominant ODI players in the world.