IND vs SA 2025: Virat Kohli receives heartfelt rose welcome from kids ahead of Raipur ODI

Indian veteran Virat Kohli received a heartwarming and touching reception upon his arrival in Raipur ahead of the second ODI against South Africa. As the Indian team reached their hotel on Monday evening, a group of young children waited eagerly at the entrance, holding roses in their hands in hopes of meeting their cricketing idol.

The moment Kohli stepped off the team bus, the children rushed forward with excitement, offering him the flowers. Kohli responded with a warm smile, graciously accepting each rose while thanking the young fans for their gesture. The kids, overjoyed to be in the presence of their hero, could barely contain their excitement. Videos capturing this wholesome interaction quickly went viral on social media, drawing admiration from fans across the country.

Kohli is already the focal point of the ongoing ODI series, thanks to his scintillating performance in the opening match in Ranchi. On Sunday, the star batter hammered a majestic 135 off just 120 balls, striking 11 fours and seven sixes. His powerful century propelled India to a commanding total of 349 runs and played a decisive role in giving the team a 1-0 lead in the series.

With this innings, Kohli also continued his record-breaking spree, adding yet another milestone to his name as he surpassed Sachin Tendulkar for the most centuries by any player in a single format. Rohit Sharma also made a significant contribution, smashing a rapid 57 and forging a strong 136-run opening partnership with Kohli. Their stand laid the foundation for India’s dominant victory in the first ODI.

For the second game, India have scheduled an optional training session on Tuesday afternoon. Having arrived early in Raipur following the first match, the players have the freedom to choose whether to participate, depending on their workload and recovery needs.

After suffering a 2-0 whitewash in the Test series against the Proteas, India will be eager to clinch the ODI series in style and secure a confidence-boosting result. The second ODI between India and South Africa will be played on Wednesday, December 3.