Sports Desk: Kohli’s Blaze: Vizag ODI Tickets Vanish in Frenzy
The India-South Africa ODI series has reached a fever pitch, with the decider set for Visakhapatnam on December 6. After splitting the first two games in Ranchi and Raipur, fans are buzzing over Virat Kohli’s back-to-back centuries that have turned the spotlight brighter. This surge in excitement has led to a complete sellout at the ACA-VDCA Stadium, a testament to Kohli’s enduring pull.
Series Snapshot
India kicked off the three-match ODI series with a convincing win in Ranchi on November 30, where Kohli’s unbeaten 135 set the tone. South Africa bounced back in Raipur on December 3, chasing down a mammoth target thanks to Aiden Markram’s 110, leveling the score at 1-1. Now, all eyes turn to Visakhapatnam for what promises to be a high-stakes finale.
Kohli’s Red-Hot Streak
Virat Kohli has been in sublime touch, smashing consecutive centuries to anchor India’s batting. His Ranchi knock of 135 was a masterclass in control, followed by another ton in Raipur that nearly steered the hosts to victory. This marks his 11th instance of back-to-back ODI hundreds, underlining his unmatched consistency at 37.
Ticket Demand Explodes
Sales for the Vizag clash started sluggishly on November 28 online, with offline counters following suit. But Kohli’s Ranchi heroics changed everything; the second and third phases on November 30 and December 3 saw 15,000 tickets evaporate within minutes. Andhra Cricket Association officials credit the “Kohli effect” for this whirlwind response, as initial fan turnout fell short of expectations.
Vizag’s Special Bond
Kohli boasts an impressive ledger at Visakhapatnam, featuring in seven ODIs with 587 runs at an average of 97.83. That haul includes three centuries and two fifties, making the venue a happy hunting ground. Fans hope he extends his current streak here, adding another chapter to his legacy.
Chasing History Anew
Having retired from T20Is and Tests, Kohli now focuses solely on ODIs, eyeing a spot in the 2027 World Cup. His last feat of three straight ODI tons came against West Indies in 2018, joining an elite club of 12 batters. Supporters are dreaming of a repeat in Vizag, where his blade could etch yet another milestone.
With the series on a knife’s edge, Kohli’s form has not just boosted morale but emptied the stands. This ODI decider could redefine narratives, blending individual brilliance with team triumph.