In a sport often defined by its heroes, few command the spotlight quite like Virat Kohli. His recent performance in the second One-Day International (ODI) of the three-match series against South Africa has once again ignited passionate discussions and showered him with accolades, none more profound than Sunil Gavaskar’s declaration: ‘Who needs a Superman when you have Virat Kohli?’ This ultimate compliment from a legendary figure underscores the sheer dominance and mission-driven approach of the Indian batting maestro, as he notched up his 53rd ODI century in Raipur on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.

Kohli’s century, a masterful 102 runs off 93 deliveries, was not just another feather in his cap; it was a statement. This was his second consecutive hundred in the ongoing series against South Africa, following a stunning 135 runs off 120 deliveries in India’s 17-run victory in the first ODI in Ranchi. Such back-to-back brilliance paints a vivid picture of a man entirely focused, performing at the zenith of his powers. It’s a testament to his unwavering commitment and unparalleled skill that even at 37, he continues to redefine the benchmarks of ODI batting.

The Gavaskar Endorsement: A Masterclass in Batting Fundamentals

Sunil Gavaskar, a titan of Indian cricket and a connoisseur of batting artistry, was visibly ‘ecstatic’ with Kohli’s innings. His ‘Superman’ analogy wasn’t merely a hyperbole; it was rooted in a deep understanding of the game’s nuances. Gavaskar highlighted a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of Kohli’s game: his prolific single-taking ability. ‘In his career record, you will find how many singles he has taken. Singles are the lifeblood of batting in any format of the game,’ Gavaskar observed. He further elaborated on its psychological impact, stating, ‘It makes the batter feel he is on the move, not stagnating, not being blocked by the bowlers.’

This insight is profound. In an era dominated by boundary-hitting and power-play heroics, Gavaskar’s emphasis on singles underscores Kohli’s mastery of classic batting principles. The ability to rotate the strike, to convert good deliveries into singles, not only keeps the scoreboard ticking but also constantly puts pressure on the fielding side. It prevents bowlers from settling into a rhythm and frustrates captains by disrupting their field placements. Moreover, as Gavaskar pointed out, Kohli is always ‘looking for the extra for his partner,’ a selflessness that elevates his game beyond individual milestones and makes him an invaluable team player. This was evident in his pivotal partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad, where he guided his junior partner through a challenging phase.

A Century of Milestones: Kohli’s Ever-Expanding Records

This 53rd ODI century is also his 84th international century, further solidifying his place among the pantheons of cricketing greats. While he still trails the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who boasts 100 international centuries, Kohli’s relentless pursuit of excellence ensures that every innings brings him closer to rewriting history. The sheer volume of his centuries speaks volumes about his consistency and longevity at the highest level.

Perhaps even more astounding is a statistic highlighted by this recent feat: Kohli now holds 11 different streaks of hundreds in two (or more) consecutive ODI innings. To put this into perspective, the next most for any player is a mere six, held by the formidable AB de Villiers. This record isn’t just about scoring runs; it’s about sustaining peak performance over multiple matches, a testament to his mental fortitude, physical conditioning, and unwavering focus. Such streaks are a rare commodity in cricket, demonstrating a profound ability to carry form and momentum from one game to the next.

The Partnership That Rescued India: A Mentorship in Action

Kohli’s century was particularly crucial in the context of the second ODI. After South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and opted to bowl, India found themselves in a precarious position with early wickets falling. Yashasvi Jaiswal (22) and Rohit Sharma (14) departed cheaply, putting the onus on the middle order to rebuild.

Stepping up to the challenge, Kohli, alongside the promising Ruturaj Gaikwad, stitched together a magnificent 195-run stand for the fourth wicket. This partnership was a masterclass in risk management and calculated aggression. While Kohli played his anchoring role, Gaikwad, 28, flourished under the guidance of his senior pro, slamming his maiden century in ODI cricket. Gaikwad’s impressive 105 runs off 83 deliveries, featuring 12 fours and two sixes, was a coming-of-age knock, undoubtedly bolstered by Kohli’s calming presence and strategic advice at the other end. This partnership was instrumental in helping India cross the 250-run mark, setting a competitive total.

The return of Temba Bavuma and Keshav Maharaj to the South African squad, after being rested in the first game, indicated the Proteas’ intent to bounce back. However, Kohli’s monumental effort ensured India maintained their momentum, turning the tide after the early setbacks.

The Enduring Legacy of a ‘Man on a Mission’

The description of Virat Kohli as a ‘man on a mission’ perfectly encapsulates his approach to the game. Every run, every inning, every series seems to be part of a larger, meticulously planned trajectory towards cricketing greatness. His hunger for runs, his fierce competitiveness, and his ability to thrive under immense pressure continue to inspire millions and confound opponents.

Kohli’s current form in the India vs South Africa 2025 series is not an anomaly; it’s a continuation of a career defined by pushing boundaries and setting new standards. His capacity to absorb pressure, rotate the strike, and then unleash a flurry of boundaries when needed, makes him an unparalleled force in ODI cricket. He doesn’t just score centuries; he crafts match-winning innings, often single-handedly carrying his team to victory.

As the series progresses, all eyes will remain on Kohli. His performances are not just statistical achievements; they are narratives of resilience, determination, and the sheer joy of watching a master at work. Gavaskar’s compliment, equating him to ‘Superman’, is more than just praise; it’s an acknowledgment of Kohli’s extraordinary impact on the game, an impact that transcends numbers and resonates deeply with fans and pundits alike. It reinforces the idea that true greatness lies not just in power, but in precision, persistence, and partnership – qualities Virat Kohli embodies with unparalleled consistency.

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