Virat Kohli demonstrated a stellar performance in the 1st ODI of the three-match series against South Africa in Ranchi, captivating the crowd with a remarkable century that highlighted finesse, timing, and composure. As soon as he achieved his 52nd ODI century, the thrilling environment became disorganized as an unexpected intrusion took place. A spectator bypassed security and ran onto the field, approaching Kohli during his celebration. The event briefly disrupted the game, eliciting astonished responses from the audience and players. Kohli, who had just kissed his wedding ring to acknowledge the achievement, experienced an abrupt pause in his celebration. It turned into one of the most shared moments of the game, combining emotion, security failure, and the appeal of a celebrity all in one instance.
IND vs SA: Virat Kohli’s brilliant Ranchi hundred sparks drama as pitch invader disrupts 52nd ODI ton celebration
The instant Kohli guided Marco Jansen towards third man to achieve his 52nd ODI century, Ranchi burst into celebration, but a sudden intrusion onto the field drew attention as a young admirer sprinted across the field before stopping at Kohli’s feet, causing an unforeseen and remarkable break in the celebration.
Kohli had just jumped for joy and revealed his ring pendant when the intruder approached him, compelling security to step in promptly as officials pursued him across the field, emphasizing both the level of affection and the shortcomings in managing the crowd; the fan’s emotional action surprised Kohli but did not disrupt his composed manner as he stepped back, permitting guards to lead the individual away. Kohli continued his celebration, albeit with a more subdued expression, acknowledging the crowd while ensuring no further interruptions occurred; the break overshadowed the broadcasters’ initial spotlight on his statistics, attracting global attention to the combination of passion and disarray that frequently surrounds cricket’s most prominent figures.
Here’s the video:
He is the reason for my happiness @imVkohli
83rd Century for Virat Kohli 🙌#INDVSSAODI pic.twitter.com/0i7HJKBsOP— Reyansh (@Reyansh34449) November 30, 2025
Also READ: IND vs SA: Fans go gaga after Virat Kohli silences critics as he lights up Ranchi with his 52nd ODI hundred
Kohli’s magnificent century and India’s dominance against South Africa in Ranchi
Kohli’s century itself was a remarkable achievement crafted with outstanding command as he arrived early after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal, settled through precise boundaries, and steadily unleashed his complete array of shots, beginning with a third-man four before displaying straight drives, cover drives, and elevated sixes that portrayed a batter reconnecting with his optimal form; although somewhat uncertain initially, he rapidly assessed the pitch’s speed and bounce, adjusting with accuracy, taking on both pace and spin with assured footwork.
He reached his fifty off 48 balls with a dominant six off Corbin Bosch and continued guiding the innings even as Rohit Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Washington Sundar departed around him; his strike rotation slowed in the 90s as he pursued the milestone, but the moment he reached triple figures off 102 deliveries, he began accelerating again with a flurry of boundaries and towering hits; his partnership of 136 with Rohit established the basis for India’s dominance, showcasing classical and aggressive strokes blended perfectly.
Virat struck 11 fours and seven sixes during his innings, displaying both finesse and strength, including a towering straight six off Burger and another impressive hit off Baartman; Ranchi proved exceptional once more as he achieved his third century at the venue, adding another chapter to his connection with the ground; the innings also reaffirmed his ambition for a spot in the 2027 World Cup squad, responding to critics who questioned his focus on a single format; eventually, a clever slower ball from Nandre Burger ended his stay on 135 off 120, but the crowd stood together in admiration as he departed after delivering one of his finest modern-day ODI performances.
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