Raipur: Batting superstar Virat Kohli received a heartwarming welcome from a group of young fans outside the Indian team hotel in Raipur on Monday evening. Holding roses in their hands, the children eagerly greeted Kohli ahead of the second ODI against South Africa, creating a touching moment that delighted fans across social media.
Kohli appeared visibly moved by the gesture, smiling as he accepted each rose and waved to the star-struck youngsters before entering the hotel. The emotional reception came just a day after Kohli’s match-winning performance in Ranchi, where he scored his 52nd ODI century, a commanding 135 off 120 balls, helping India post 349 runs and secure a convincing win in the series opener.
The 37-year-old, who currently resides in London, has been in the spotlight throughout India’s ongoing ODI series. His Raipur arrival followed an interaction with former India captain MS Dhoni at his Ranchi residence, a meeting that generated significant buzz among fans. Kohli’s on-field brilliance, coupled with his approachable demeanor, has set an energetic tone as India prepare for the next game.
The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur will host only its second ODI, and a strong crowd is expected despite the midweek schedule. The stadium previously witnessed India’s victory over New Zealand, powered by Mohammed Shami’s bowling and Rohit Sharma’s quick half-century, while Kohli had contributed 11 runs.
With both Kohli and Rohit shining in the series opener—Kohli with a commanding century and Rohit with a fluent fifty and breaking Shahid Afridi’s record of 351 ODI sixes—fans are eager to see more fireworks. Raipur spectators are aware that this could be a rare chance to watch the two white-ball icons live, as both are focused on cementing their spots in India’s 2027 World Cup squad.
As India aim for a 2–0 lead in the series, Kohli and Rohit are expected to be at the forefront once again, bringing their experience, skill, and renewed energy to the middle.
