The second One Day International between India and South Africa in Raipur began with an electric atmosphere, as fans poured into the stadium expecting another high-quality contest in the ongoing series. After South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl first, India’s top order approached the early overs with caution against the disciplined Proteas attack. But the moment Virat Kohli stepped onto the field, the entire mood shifted. Known for his flair, confidence and ability to seize control instantly, Kohli wasted no time in stamping his authority. His arrival at the crease was marked by a breathtaking stroke—one that sent the Raipur crowd into absolute delirium.
Virat Kohli smashes Lungi Ngidi for a stylish six
The highlight of the early innings unfolded off the final ball of the sixth over, bowled by South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi. The right-arm pacer, looking to unsettle the incoming batter, pitched a sharp short ball at 131.5 kph. But Kohli, ever alert and technically astute, picked up the length almost instantly. With a swift swivel of his hips and masterful balance, he unleashed a thunderous pull shot. The power behind the stroke lifted his front leg into the air as the bat met the ball with perfect timing.
The ball soared high over backward square leg, comfortably clearing the boundary and earning Kohli a six off the very first scoring shot of his innings. For the spectators at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium, it was a moment of pure delight—an early reminder of Kohli’s match-winning presence and his ability to dictate terms from the outset. As the ball sailed into the stands, the roar from the Raipur crowd was deafening, echoing the sense of anticipation and excitement that surrounds every Kohli innings.
Here’s the video:
Vintage @imVkohli vibes! 🔥#TeamIndia batters are showing intent & keeping the scoreboard ticking fast! 💙🏏#INDvSA 2nd ODI, LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/uUUTmm025J pic.twitter.com/6CaSSRf6Qw
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 3, 2025
The persistent toss trouble for India
While Kohli’s spectacular six dominated conversations in the stadium and beyond, another storyline quietly continued to shadow the Indian side. South Africa winning the toss in the 2nd ODI marked India’s 20th consecutive loss at the toss in One Day Internationals—a statistic that has become increasingly baffling for fans and analysts. Such an improbable streak has sparked debates, jokes and concerns across the cricketing community.
However, once the action resumed, the focus quickly shifted away from India’s ongoing toss misfortune and back to the brilliance unfolding in the middle. Kohli’s authoritative stroke not only energized the team but also set the tone for India’s approach in the crucial contest.
