South African all-rounder Marco Jansen has provided a stark and honest insight into the daunting task bowlers face when confronting Virat Kohli, stating that elite batters of his calibre become "almost impossible to stop" once they find their rhythm. This admission came on the back of Kohli's masterful 135-run knock in the first ODI in Ranchi, which powered India to a 17-run victory and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The Small Window of Opportunity Against Kohli
Jansen, reflecting on Kohli's 52nd ODI century, pinpointed the only realistic chance a bowler gets. "When you bowl to world-class players, it's quite difficult to get them out," Jansen explained. "I always try to get a batter in his first 10 or 15 balls. That's when they're still getting used to the wicket." He emphasized that this initial phase is crucial, as the dynamics change completely once a player like Kohli settles in.
"Once they're in, and they get on a roll, it's very difficult to stop them," he added. "Everyone here knows how to play — that's why you go to plan B or C." Jansen's words underscore the relentless pressure Kohli applies, forcing bowling attacks to constantly scramble for backup strategies.
A Bowler's Perspective: From Fan to Foe
The South African speedster's first encounter with Kohli was as a 17-year-old net bowler during India's tour of South Africa in 2017–18. That experience left a lasting impression that remains vivid today. "It's nice to watch him play. Growing up watching him on TV to actually bowling to him now… it's annoying but it's fun at the same time," Jansen shared with a mix of admiration and frustration.
He broke down the completeness of Kohli's batting that makes him so formidable. "He drives well, he pulls well, cuts well, plays with his pads well. I don't think much has changed — he's just batting longer and longer," Jansen observed, highlighting the Indian stalwart's technical prowess and growing appetite for big scores.
Looking Ahead: Series Moves to Raipur
Despite the opening loss, Jansen insisted the Proteas camp was "not disheartened". He expressed confidence that the team was executing the right plans and merely needed to string together consistent performances. "We believe we are doing the right things," he stated. The team awaits clearer injury updates ahead of the second ODI in Raipur, where Aiden Markram will continue to captain the side in the absence of the injured Temba Bavuma.
On a personal note, Jansen said a stable top order is allowing him the freedom to play his natural game with the bat lower down the order. "I'm just watching the ball and playing it as it comes. At the moment it's working for me," he remarked about his current form.
The focus now shifts to the upcoming high-stakes clash in Raipur, where the South African bowlers, armed with Jansen's candid assessment, will look to find that small window of opportunity before the Indian maestro, particularly Virat Kohli, gets on one of his legendary rolls.
