Star Indian batter Virat Kohli produced another masterclass by scoring his record-extending 53rd ODI century in the second match against South Africa at Raipur. The 37-year-old, who had blasted 135 in the series-opener at Ranchi, brought up this milestone in just 90 balls, underscoring his exceptional consistency and hunger at the top level.

This century marked Kohli’s 84th international ton across all formats, edging him closer to the ultimate record held by the cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar

, who retired in 2013 with a monumental 100 international centuries—51 in Tests and 49 in ODIs.

Back-to-Back Century Milestone

Kohli’s latest ton was historic, as it represented the 11th occasion in ODI cricket history that a player scored consecutive centuries—the highest such tally by any cricketer. This feat affirms Kohli’s status as one of the greatest in the 50-over format while silencing any lingering doubts about his form or fitness.

ICC Rankings Movement and Next Targets

Kohli also significantly narrowed the gap in the ICC ODI batting rankings. He currently trails Rohit Sharma by just 32 rating points, having overtaken teammate Shubman Gill

to move into fourth place. Rohit Sharma continues to hold the No.1 spot comfortably, followed by Daryl Mitchell of New Zealand and Ibrahim Zadran from Afghanistan.

In bowling rankings, veteran left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav

made a notable jump, moving up one place to sixth among ODI bowlers, highlighting India’s balanced strength as they look forward to maintaining momentum in the series.

Kohli’s drive to reclaim the top ICC batting spot and to chase Tendulkar’s century record adds an exhilarating personal subplot to the already gripping India vs South Africa clash.