Record-breaking 52nd Century in Ranchi
On November 30, 2025, in the first match of the India vs South Africa ODI series at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi, veteran batter Virat Kohli achieved a historic milestone. In that contest, he struck a commanding 135 runs (off 120 balls), carrying India to a total of 349/8. The innings proved decisive as India went on to win by 17 runs. This knock marked Kohli’s record-extending 52nd century in ODI cricket, moving him past Sachin Tendulkar’s previous mark of 49 ODI hundreds.
India vs South Africa (Ranchi ODI) – Match Highlights
Batting first, India built a competitive total behind Kohli’s performance. Kohli’s 135 came off 120 balls, and he shared a second-wicket partnership of 136 with Rohit Sharma, setting India on course for the 349/8 total. In reply, South Africa fought back through half-centuries by Matthew Breetzke (72) and Marco Jansen (70), adding a 97-run stand for the sixth wicket. However, India’s bowlers ultimately prevailed—the Proteas were bowled out for 332, falling 17 runs short. Leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav took four crucial wickets (4/68), which proved pivotal in securing India’s win.
Key Statistics:
- Kohli scored 135 runs from 120 balls (7 sixes, 11 fours) in the Ranchi ODI.
- India finished on 349/8; South Africa were 332 all out (49.2 overs).
- The century was Kohli’s 52nd in ODI cricket, surpassing Tendulkar’s 49.
- It was also Kohli’s 83rd international century across all formats.
- Kuldeep Yadav’s 4/68 was instrumental in defending India’s total.
Surpassing Tendulkar’s ODI Record
Kohli’s achievement set a new benchmark in one-day cricket. By reaching 52 ODI hundreds, he moved comfortably past Tendulkar’s 49 centuries in the 50-over format. It was also his 83rd century across all international sports formats, second only to Tendulkar’s overall tally of 100. These milestones underscore Kohli’s dominance in ODI cricket and his sustained excellence throughout his career.
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Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s record-breaking century in Ranchi not only won the match for India but also cemented his status as one of cricket’s all-time greats. With 52 ODI centuries, he now leads the list of century-makers in the 50-over format by a significant margin. The innings in the India vs. South Africa match demonstrated that even at 37 years old, Kohli remains a powerful force in ODI cricket. As India takes a 1-0 lead in the series, attention will now turn to whether Kohli can carry this form into the remaining matches.
