Lights, celebrations… but still no Virat Kohli after India’s win in 1st ODI vs SA
Virat Kohli’s absence from victory celebrations and a prolonged Rohit–Gambhir conversation at the team hotel spark quiet speculation after a big win.
Virat Kohli (Image Credit: BCCI)
Last Updated: 01.59 PM, Dec 01, 2025
On November 30, the crowd in Ranchi and across the country were delighted to watch their favorite cricketer, Virat Kohli, play some quality cricket and help India win the first ODI against South Africa by 17 runs. It was Kohli’s century, Rohit and Rahul’s half-century, and Harshit Rana’s astounding bowling spells that truly helped the team.
If we dive deep, Prasidh Krishna’s last over was also quite crucial since the Proteas needed 18 runs and Corbin Bosch was playing on 67. His intent was clear: hit the ball that’s in the slot. However, he failed to hit the runs, and the Proteas lost the match.
After the match was completed, the Indian team was seen celebrating in the hotel with captain KL Rahul cutting the cake. All the players were spotted during the celebration, but Virat Kohli went back to his room and didn't attend the celebration. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir were seen having a long animated conversation during the celebration. Soon after this, the speculation regarding the relationship between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir.
Are Kohli-Rohit having any rift with Gautam Gambhir?
There are many speculations regarding Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma having a rift with Gautam Gambhir, and a BCCI source has confirmed it. As mentioned in a report by Jagran, their relationships haven’t been great for quite a few months. Moreover, there is likely a meeting that’s going to happen with Rohit and Kohli.
“The relations between Gautam Gambhir and senior players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma aren’t as good as they should be, and there could be a meeting regarding the future of the two players. This could take place either in Raipur or Visakhapatnam, venues for the second and third ODIs,” Jagran quoted a BCCI source as saying.
How to watch India vs South Africa, ODI series?
Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs South Africa, ODI series from November 30 on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.