Virat Kohli’s sparkling form showed no signs of easing as he produced his 53rd ODI century in Raipur, crafting a fluent hundred off just 90 deliveries against South Africa. The former India captain looked in complete command, manoeuvring the bowlers with characteristic precision and composure. In the process, Kohli added yet another milestone to his extraordinary career, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar for the most 50-plus scores by an Indian against South Africa in international cricket. Kohli now stands at 26 such scores, ahead of Tendulkar’s 25, with Rahul Dravid and Sourav Ganguly further behind on the list.

India were also buoyed by Ruturaj Gaikwad’s maiden ODI century, a stylish 105 from 83 balls. His dismissal brought an end to a commanding 195-run partnership with Kohli, which had placed India in a position of strength. Gaikwad’s knock, marked by finesse and confidence, further underscored India’s top-order dominance. (With inputs from Agencies)