Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has offered a clear look into Virat Kohli’s mindset after the star batter scored back-to-back centuries against South Africa in the ongoing ODI series. Ashwin said Kohli’s aggressive celebrations, which have returned after a long time, show that he is responding to the recent chatter about his future and proving that he still has a lot to offer.
Kohli has been in brilliant form in this series. After returning to the Indian team last month and facing two ducks in Australia, he bounced back with a composed 74* in Sydney. He then followed it with two strong centuries against South Africa, both marked by sharp footwork, quick running between the wickets, and great control against both spin and pace. But what caught everyone’s attention was his intense celebration after reaching the milestones, something fans had not seen from him in a while.
Speaking on his YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin said that the recent discussions about Kohli being a one-format player may have played a role in his fired-up reactions. He also pointed out that Kohli’s decision to play the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy shows that he wants to make his intentions clear to the team management. 
Ashwin said, “Virat must have thought, are these people doubting me? Are they doubting my ability? He is a very competitive person. He has taken all this to heart and is showing what he can do.” He added that stepping away from Test cricket earlier had already been a big decision for Kohli, and many opinions and questions around him may have affected him more than people realise.
The former India all-rounder also noted that Kohli looks technically stronger now. He said the batter’s “centre of gravity is lower” compared to the last couple of years, helping him read the length better and time his shots more cleanly.
Kohli’s numbers this year support Ashwin’s views. In 12 ODIs, he has scored 586 runs at an average of 58.60, including three centuries and three half-centuries. In the current series alone, he has scored 237 runs at an average of 118.50 and is a strong contender for the Player of the Series award.
India will now head into the series decider at Visakhapatnam on Saturday. Kohli has an exceptional record at this venue, with 587 runs in seven innings, averaging 97.83, including three centuries and a best of 157*. With South Africa chasing down 359 in Raipur in the previous match, the final ODI promises high scoring and high pressure—conditions where Kohli has often delivered his best.
