Follow UsAs the ODI series between India and South Africa continues, Ravichandran Ashwin has offered his own sharp reading of Virat Kohli’s animated celebrations following his back-to-back centuries in the first two ODIs, suggesting they reflected an inner message directed at those who questioned his form. Kohli had struck 135 in the opening ODI in Ranchi and followed it with 102 in Raipur, giving India a great platform to carry on and win.
Speaking on his YouTube channel “Ash ki Baat”, Ashwin said Kohli’s reactions were not just expressions of joy but a statement born out of competitive fire.
“Message must have gone inside Virat that ‘Are you people doubting my ability?’ Because Virat is very competitive. Because of that competitive nature, he has performed so well,” Ashwin said, as quoted by The Indian Express.
“He looks in a good space. Looks like he had good practice. His mind is in good space. He has scored two centuries. He is telling not the world. He is telling himself. You doubted me. I did it. I have got in me, and that is what I saw when he celebrated,” the former right-arm spinner added.
Ashwin also reflected on the broader emotional landscape surrounding Kohli, linking the intensity of his celebrations to the significant decision he recently made in stepping away from Test cricket.
“Let’s not forget to understand why Virat is celebrating like that? What is he thinking? What has he gone through? Let’s not forget that Virat left Test cricket,” Ashwin reminded.
“And Virat and Test cricket have been very very synchronous. He likes Test cricket very much. He always wants to play but he has left the Test cricket format.”.
Kohli spoke after his Ranchi hundred about the clarity with which he is approaching the game.
He said, “I just wanted to play the ball and enjoy the game of cricket. It was about enjoying and when you get a start, then the experience kicks in and you’re able to build an innings. I’ve never been a believer of a lot of prep. All my cricket has been mental. I work physically very hard, as long as my fitness levels are up and then you visualise batting and feeling well, it’s good.”
As India and South Africa head into the deciding stages of the ODI leg, Kohli’s form and the conviction behind his performances have become central narratives of the tour, and Ashwin’s reading of his celebrations confirms the significance of these runs.