Brilliant Performances in Raipur
On December 3, 2025, in Raipur, Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad showcased their remarkable cricketing skills in the second ODI match against South Africa. With Kohli scoring 102 and Gaikwad making 105, the duo led India to a formidable total of 358/5. Their performance not only set the stage for a thrilling match but also etched their names in the record books.
Kohli and Gaikwad's Partnership
The highlight of the match was the incredible partnership between Kohli and Gaikwad. After a shaky start, the two batsmen combined to form a remarkable 195-run partnership for the third wicket. This partnership surpassed previous records, establishing new benchmarks in Indian ODI cricket.
| Player | Runs | Balls | Strike Rate |
|---|
| Ruturaj Gaikwad | 105 | 83 | 126.51 |
| Virat Kohli | 102 | 93 | 109.68 |
Records Broken
This match allowed Gaikwad to claim his maiden ODI century, reaching the century mark in just 77 balls—the second-fastest century for an Indian against South Africa. This milestone puts him just behind Yusuf Pathan’s record from 2011.
Moreover, Kohli's century marked his 53rd in ODIs and 84th overall. With this performance, he now has more 50-plus scores against South Africa than any other player in history, breaking the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar.
Kohli's Unique Achievement
Raipur became the 34th distinct venue where Kohli scored an ODI hundred, tying him with Tendulkar for the most centuries recorded at different venues. This ongoing rivalry between these two legends continues to captivate cricket fans around the world.
Key Match Statistics
In summary, the second ODI was not just about runs scored; it was a testament to Kohli and Gaikwad's place in cricket history. Here’s a quick recap of their significant achievements:
| Record | Details |
|---|
| Highest partnership for India vs South Africa | 195 runs |
| Second-fastest ODI hundred for India vs South Africa | 77 balls |
| Kohli's 50-plus scores against South Africa | 26 |
With both players in scintillating form, cricket enthusiasts are eagerly looking forward to how they will perform in the upcoming matches.