New DelhiLike everyone else, the stand-in captain of India for the ODI series against South Africa was amazed by the veterans' batting performance in the first ODI in Ranchi.
At the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Kohli scored an incredible 135 off 120 balls against the Proteas. Kohli was at his absolute best in the series opener and struck boundaries at will. During his stroke-filled knock, the 37-year-old slammed 11 fours and seven sixes in his masterful innings in Ranchi.
Another former India captain, Rohit Sharma, hit a powerful 51-ball 57 against the Proteas, his third straight fifty-plus score in the format, while Kohli went on to smash a hundred. Rahul, who serves as the captain's stand-in, praised the two mainstays.
"Obviously, it's always enjoyable to watch them play that way, play with that freedom, and put opponents under pressure throughout their careers. Make them look silly at times and just show the world why they are who they are and the numbers that they've been able to get and the number of games that they've won for the country," Rahul said in the post-match presentation.
"Obviously, I've seen this for a long time, and it's much more enjoyable to see them around in the dressing room. I've played all of my cricket with them, so it's great to talk to them and have them back. It's obviously a joy for me and everyone else in the stadium to watch them play like that," he continued.
Rahul's batting positionRahul, on the other hand, had declared prior to the commencement of the series that he would bat at the No. 6 position against South Africa because that is his position. After the first ODI ended, he was questioned about his batting position.
"I mean, I have to do the job for the team, and that's the role that's been assigned for the last two or three ODI series. I'm trying my hardest and finding enjoyment in taking on different responsibilities and pushing myself and my game. I keep thinking about the game and how I can improve because I believe it's beneficial for personal growth as well," he remarked.
Rahul also discussed the anxious moments when South Africa ran the hosts close and gave them a serious scare. Following powerful half-centuries from Corbin Bosch and their all-rounder Marco Jansen, the Proteas were in the hunt. Nevertheless, the Men in Blue continued to take wickets and ultimately completed the task.
"...if he ever experienced butterflies in his stomach?) If I said none at all, I would be lying. I believe that during the 50 overs, I was playing ODI cricket after a while and getting to captain the nation once more. It's clear that everyone who has given me the responsibility has some expectations of me. Yes, there were a few butterflies, but I believe we continued to take wickets at the appropriate times. We were also very explicit and meticulous with our plans, and it was encouraging to see that the bowlers adhered to them. Although there was a sense of calm throughout, it was exciting because they clearly pushed us and kept coming hard," he said.If I said none at all, I would be lying.