In a vivid demonstration of his unparalleled fan following, batting superstar Virat Kohli was embraced by a fan who breached security to touch his feet immediately after he scored his 52nd ODI century at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi on Sunday. The incident occurred during the first ODI between India and South Africa, in what is affectionately known as “Dhoni-land.”
The fanfare for Kohli at the venue of MS Dhoni’s hometown proved to be exceptional, culminating in the dramatic pitch invasion. Kohli was in the middle of his customary celebration—taking out his ring pendant and kissing it—when the emotional fan managed to bypass security, ran across the entire length of the ground, and quickly fell at the batting maestro’s feet.
Security officials, who had been chasing the intruder since the boundary ropes, quickly intervened and escorted the individual away from the 22 yards.
The moment, captured on broadcast and widely shared on social media, underscores the deep devotion Kohli inspires. A fan page on X shared the video, noting, “Legends don’t just play, they inspire devotion! The King does it again vs South Africa — and a fan even touched his feet to honour the milestone.”
Kohli’s century in Ranchi, a ground synonymous with the success of the legendary MS Dhoni, solidified his reputation as one of the most celebrated cricketers in the world, capable of drawing intense devotion wherever he plays.