Despite losing the captaincy, Virat Kohli's aggression did not diminish. In the first ODI, Kohli got involved in a feud with South African captain Temba Babuma. They were seen arguing in the field.

The incident happened while South Africa was batting. Kohli was fielding in short cover. After playing a ball towards him, Bavuma left the crease and came out. With the opportunity to run out, Kohli immediately grabbed the ball and threw it towards the wicket. The ball bounced off the side of Bavuma's feet towards the wicketkeeper.

Although Kohli's shot did not hit Babuma, he was upset. He thinks he got into the crease. So Kohli could have thrown the ball so hard. He expressed his displeasure and said something to Kohli. The former India captain also did not remain silent. He countered. Later the umpires came and mediated.

After losing the Test series, the one-day series did not start well for India. Batting first, South Africa scored 296 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 50 overs. Captains Bavuma and Van der Dussen scored hundreds. In reply, India made 265 for 6 in 50 overs. Shikhar Dhawan scored 69 and Kohli 51 runs. In the end Shardul Tagore made 50 but India lost the match by 31 runs.