India, Dec. 1 -- After making a statement with the bat in Ranchi, Virat Kohli, having collected the Player of the Match award, used the post-match presentation to send a subtle yet clear message to the BCCI regarding their domestic-cricket mandate for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Kohli stood out in India's 17-run win in the opening match of the three-ODI series against South Africa, with his 52nd century in the format, and first since February, en route to a 120-ball 135. While the knock strengthened his hold over the all-time century record in ODI cricket, it pushed him further towards the ultimate run-scoring record in the format, which is still held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Retirement from T20Is last year and then from Tests ear...