The second ODI between India and South Africa at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur turned into a record-breaking spectacle as Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad produced a stunning 195-run partnership for the third wicket. Their brilliant stand not only rescued India after an early wobble but also etched their names into the record books by becoming India’s highest ODI partnership against South Africa.
With this incredible achievement, fans witnessed another classic day of ODI cricket — filled with milestones, consistency, and elite batting from two world-class performers.
A Pressure Situation Turned Into a Match-Winning Partnership
India found themselves in trouble early in the innings after losing the openers cheaply.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal scored 22 off 38 balls, failing to convert his start.
- Rohit Sharma managed only 14 from 8 deliveries, falling early in an attempt to dominate the bowlers.
At 2/49, India needed stability — and that’s exactly what Kohli and Gaikwad delivered.
The Record-Breaking Moment
Their 195-run stand surpassed India’s previous best partnership against South Africa:
- 194 runs by Sachin Tendulkar & Dinesh Karthik (Gwalior, 2010)
This was the same match in which Sachin created history by scoring the first-ever ODI double-century.
Breaking such a milestone speaks volumes about the brilliance of Kohli and Gaikwad on this crucial night in Raipur.
Ruturaj Gaikwad Shines With His First ODI Century
One of the highlights of the match was Ruturaj Gaikwad’s maiden ODI hundred, which came off just 77 balls. This made it the second-fastest ODI century by an Indian against South Africa, just behind:
- Yusuf Pathan – 68 balls (Centurion, 2011)
Gaikwad’s innings was a blend of elegance and controlled aggression. His final score:
105 runs from 83 balls
- 12 boundaries
- 2 sixes
- Perfect strike rotation and intelligent shot selection
For a player often seen as a T20 specialist, this century was a strong message that he is equally capable of anchoring innings in the 50-over format.
Virat Kohli Continues His Unstoppable Form
Just when you think Virat Kohli has achieved everything possible, he adds another feather to his already decorated cap. Kohli smashed his 53rd ODI century, getting to the milestone in 90 balls.
This was also his second consecutive century in the series, following his remarkable 135 in Ranchi during the first ODI, which India won by 17 runs.
Kohli’s incredible streaks continue
Virat now holds:
- 11 different streaks of consecutive century-scoring ODI innings
This is far ahead of the next best, AB de Villiers, who has six such streaks.
Final score: 102 runs from 93 balls
- 7 fours
- 2 sixes
- Another masterclass in pacing an innings
Kohli’s consistency remains unmatched in modern-day cricket, and this innings further strengthened his legacy.
Kohli’s Dominance Against Multiple Opponents
With this century, Kohli has now registered seven or more ODI hundreds against four international teams, a rare accomplishment achieved by only one other cricketer: Sachin Tendulkar.
Kohli vs Opponents – Century Tally
- 10 vs Sri Lanka
- 9 vs West Indies
- 8 vs Australia
- 7 vs South Africa
These numbers show not just skill but adaptability — being able to dominate quality bowling attacks across continents and conditions.
Kohli Closes in on Sachin’s All-Time Record
This century took Kohli’s international tally to 84, bringing him closer to Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international centuries — a milestone once considered unbreakable.
While comparisons are inevitable, what makes Kohli truly special is his longevity, fitness, chase mastery, and unmatched mental strength.
Why This Partnership Was So Important for India
Apart from the records, the 195-run stand carried huge importance:
✔️ It stabilized India after early wickets
✔️ It ensured a 300+ total — crucial on a slowing Raipur pitch
✔️ It boosted India’s momentum in the series
✔️ It showcased India’s depth even without full-strength squads
This partnership is yet another example of how India continues to find new match-winners while relying on proven legends like Kohli.
Impact on the ODI Series
With their dominant show in Raipur:
- India strengthened their grip on the series
- Kohli is back in peak form
- Gaikwad has announced himself as a long-term ODI prospect
- The morale in the dressing room is high ahead of the final match
India’s ODI setup looks balanced, promising, and ready for future ICC tournaments.
Conclusion
The IND vs SA 2nd ODI at Raipur will be remembered for the extraordinary partnership between Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Their record-breaking stand not only revived India’s innings but also showcased the perfect blend of experience and youth.
- Gaikwad’s first ODI century
- Kohli’s 53rd ODI hundred
- India’s new highest partnership vs South Africa
- Several individual and team milestones
Cricket fans were treated to an unforgettable night of world-class batting. As India looks ahead, performances like these solidify their position as one of the most dominant ODI sides today.
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