BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has addressed recent media speculation regarding Virat Kohli’s potential return to Test cricket. The rumors suggested that the cricket board was planning to approach Kohli about reversing his Test retirement decision. These speculations gained momentum following India’s recent struggles in Test cricket. The national team has faced setbacks, including two home series losses in the past two years, which has impacted India’s traditionally strong home record.“What’s being said about Virat Kohli is just a rumour. There has been no conversation with Kohli about this. Do not give weight to rumours. Nothing of that sort has happened,” Devajit Saikia told AajTak.Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen shared his thoughts on social media regarding the situation.“I don’t always believe what I read in the media or on social media. But, if it’s half true that both Virat and Rohit are considering playing Test cricket again, then it needs to be taken very very seriously. The survival of Test cricket is a hot topic of conversation and if the biggest stars in the game are wanting to play it again, they must play!” Kevin Pietersen wrote onVirat Kohli scored his 52nd ODI century while Kuldeep Yadav and Harshit Rana delivered impressive bowling performances to secure India’s narrow 17-run victory over South Africa in the opening match of the three-match series.India have taken a 1-0 lead in the series, with the second match scheduled for Wednesday in Raipur.Kohli’s masterful innings of 135 runs off 120 balls, including 11 fours and 7 sixes, helped India post a substantial total of 349 for 8. South Africa fell short, managing 332 runs in their chase.Kuldeep Yadav claimed 4 wickets for 68 runs, while Harshit Rana took 3 wickets for 65 runs, effectively containing South Africa’s batting response.Matthew Breetzke scored 72 runs and Marco Jansen contributed 70 runs, helping South Africa recover from a difficult position of 11 for three wickets.Kohli’s century featured a crucial 136-run partnership with Rohit Sharma, who scored 57 runs from 51 balls.Rohit Sharma achieved a milestone by hitting his 352nd ODI six, surpassing former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi’s record of 351 sixes.KL Rahul provided late momentum with a quick 60 runs from 56 balls.The final scorecard showed India posting 349 runs for 8 wickets in 50 overs, with notable bowling performances from Ottneil Baartman (2/60) and Nandre Burger (2/65). South Africa were dismissed for 332 runs in 49.2 overs, with Kuldeep Yadav (4/68) and Harshit Rana (3/65) leading India’s bowling attack.
