Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill steadied the Indian innings with a 52-run partnership for the second wicket, countering the setback caused by Yashasvi Jaiswal’s early dismissal, which came after South Africa’s dismal 55 in the first innings.
However, Rohit’s departure to Marco Jansen in the 15th over led to Virat Kohli taking charge. What followed was an extraordinary moment that left Kohli unaffected.
During the 15th over, South African left-arm pacer Burger delivered a good-length ball at the off stump. Kohli defensively played it back to the bowler, whose subsequent attempt to aggressively throw the rebounding ball towards Kohli went unnoticed by the Indian No.4.
Burger, visibly fired up, glared intensely at the 35-year-old, creating a charged atmosphere on the field. Despite Burger’s attempt to unnerve him, Kohli, known for his fierce sportsmanship, remained unfazed by the 28-year-old bowler, who only had two Test caps.
Kohli asked team to not celebrate Elger's wicket and give Elger a respectful send off.
— 🧑🏻🦯 (@murdockdrive) January 3, 2024
My guy is such a gentleman. 🥺pic.twitter.com/aioaqHnhKD
— Virat Sharma (@ViratSharm39743) January 3, 2024
Many on social media swiftly compared the incident to Kobe Bryant’s famous staredown against Matt Barnes. Similar to the legendary Kobe Bryant, Virat Kohli exhibited remarkable composure at Newlands when he stood his ground, unflinching, despite Nandre Burger’s feigned attempt to throw the ball at him.