After a commanding victory in the third ODI that sealed the series for India, former India opener Aakash Chopra did not hold back in his praise for Virat Kohli, describing the batter’s knock as nothing short of a “gundagardi” — a term meant to reflect raw power, aggression and dominance.
Kohli, known for his meticulous technique and composed run-accumulation through most of his career, showed a more attacking edge in Visakhapatnam. The innings underlined his hunger and intent. As Aakash Chopra put it, this was “not everyday batting” — it was audacious, confident, and thoroughly intimidating for the opposition.
The third ODI came after a series of strong performances by Kohli in the opening matches, where he had already rediscovered a red-hot form. With India chasing a challenging total in the final match, his aggressive strokeplay — coupled with astute shot selection — proved instrumental in guiding India home. Supporters and former players alike felt that this knock reinforced how dangerous Kohli remains even after years at the top.
Cricket pundits have noted this adaptation in Kohli’s approach: a blend of intelligence and aggression that suits modern-day ODI cricket, where tempo and decisiveness often tilt the balance. In calling the innings “gundagardi,” Chopra captured the essence of a knock that combined timing, intent and fearlessness.
In the match, Virat Kohli pulls off a no- look shot against Corbin Bosch in the third and final match of the ODI series against South Africa in Vizag. Notably, in the final delivery of the 34th over, the 37-year-old got on his front foot and hit a six over wide-on. He inclined forward and lifted it over and didn’t even look at the delivery. He instead looked at Bosch, who was heavily impressed with the shot and so was keeper Quinton de Kock, who was left smiling. Fans in Vizag were treated to a special shot and the clip of this shot went viral on social media with plenty of praises from across the world.
