IND vs SA 2025: 'People of Virat Kohli's age hate leaving home' - South African legend in awe of Indian stalwart's work ethic

Virat Kohli turned back the clock in some style during the first ODI between India and South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Sunday, November 30. The right-handed batter notched up his 52nd ODI century and 83rd overall across the three formats. His majestic knock of 135 runs off 120 balls comprised 11 fours and seven sixes.

What has been a hallmark of Kohli's batting since he made his international debut in 2008 is his ability to keep the scoreboard ticking by rotating

strike. He has always been very swift between the wickets while batting, as was evident against the Proteas. Kohli kept converting the ones into twos and twos into threes throughout his knock.

Kohli's heroics helped India finish on a staggering total of 349/8 in their 50 overs. In reply, South Africa gave a great account of themselves and stayed in the run chase till the very end. However, they eventually lost by 17 runs, handing India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Kohli was fittingly adjudged Player of the Match for his spellbinding knock.

Legendary South African pacer Dale Steyn hailed the 37-year-old Kohli for his work ethic, saying that people of his age do not like to leave home. The cricketer-turned-commentator highlighted Kohli's eagerness to do well for the country.

"When you speak to most 37 or 38-year-olds, they say they hate leaving home, their dog, their kids. But he (Virat) is in a place mentally where he's eager to be out there playing for India. You can see it when he’s running between the wickets, fielding and diving. He's mentally young, fresh, and wants to be here,” Steyn told JioStar on Sunday.

A key thing he said is that he’s excited about playing: Steyn

Steyn also mentioned that even after playing 300 ODIs, Kohli prepares the same way as he would when he was trying to cement his spot in the side. The former also noted that Kohli looks determined to do well for his nation.

"He’s played over 300 ODIs in 15–16 years, so the experience is inside him. It’s in his body and mind. Even if he arrived here after three days of rain, it wouldn’t have affected his preparation. He’s mentally strong, visualises well, and can see the ball onto the bat. That’s what the best in the world do.They back themselves because they’ve been out there so many times. A key thing he said is that he’s excited about playing," Steyn added.