NEW DELHI: Amid ongoing scrutiny over his ODI future, Virat Kohli reminded the selectors and team management that he remains India's most bankable batter in the format by smashing a record-extending 52nd ODI hundred in the series opener against South Africa in Ranchi on Sunday.

On a flat JSCA surface, Kohli's commanding 135 off 120 balls - laced with seven sixes and 11 fours - dictated the tempo from the moment he arrived at the crease, anchoring India's imposing 349 for eight and steering the hosts to a 17-run win to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Kohli's 52nd ODI hundred - further stretching his record for the most centuries in a single format - was a masterclass in control, composure and measured aggression. But it was his post-match self-reflection, shared on the BCCI's official X handle, that truly revealed the mindset driving his performance.

"For me, the core word is awareness," Kohli said. "Being aware of situations, being aware of your own feelings and thoughts when you succeed and when you fail... so that you try to be in the most central spot."

"I have put in a considerable amount of work over the years. I would say that yes, I am in that place now. I'm still looking to get better every day of my life. That's where I am."

Kotak shuts down talks on Kohli's ODI future

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak feels speculations surrounding Kohli's impending ODI future "should not exist" given fitness, form and impact that the stalwart continues to make in 50-over cricket.

In the build-up to the three-match series, a few 'ifs and buts' emerged in the context of the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa since both Kohli and Rohit Sharma play single format, raising questions whether the two mega stars are in head coach Gautam Gambhir's scheme of things.

Leading with a note of exasperation, Kotak said he simply could not understand why Kohli's place or longevity was being debated at all.

"I really don't know why actually we need to look at all this," Kotak said after India's close 17-run win in the first ODI against South Africa on Sunday.

"He's batting so well. Why do we need to talk about his future? The way he's performing, the way his fitness is - there are no questions about anything."