IND vs SA 2025: ‘People of Virat Kohli’s age hate leaving their homes’ – South African legend impressed by India’s work ethic

What has been a hallmark of Kohli’s batting since he made his international debut in 2008 is his ability to keep the scoreboard ticking through rotational strikes. He has always been very quick between the wickets when batting, as was evident against the Proteas. Kohli kept converting ones into twos and twos into threes as he knocked.

Thanks to Kohli’s heroics, India finished on a staggering total of 349/8 in their 50 overs. In response, South Africa gave a good account of themselves and stayed in the chase to the end. However, they eventually lost by 17 runs, giving India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Kohli was rightly named Player of the Match for his mesmerizing knock.

Legendary South African pacer Dale Steyn praised the 37-year-old Kohli for his work ethic and said people of his age do not like to leave home. The cricketer turned commentator highlighted Kohli’s eagerness to do well for the country.

“If you speak to most 37 or 38-year-olds, they say they hate leaving their house, their dog and their children. But he (Virat) is mentally in a place where he wants to play for India. You can see it when he runs, fields and dives between the wickets. He is mentally young, fresh and wants to be here,” Steyn told JioStar on Sunday.

One important thing he said is that he is excited about playing: Steyn

Steyn also said that even after playing 300 ODIs, Kohli is preparing the same way he would when he was trying to cement his place in the side. The former also noted that Kohli seems determined to do well for his country.

“He has played more than 300 ODIs in 15-16 years, so the experience is in him. It is in his body and mind. Even if he had arrived here after three days of rain, it would not have affected his preparation. He is mentally strong, visualizes well and can see the ball on the bat. That is what the best in the world do. They back themselves because they have been there so many times. One important thing he said is that he is enthusiastic about playing.” Steyn added.

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