Chasing a 218-run target on a turning track, the Proteas were bundled out for 109 runs in 39.5 overs in the final session as the match ended inside three days at the IS Bindra stadium here to give India a 1-0 lead in the four-Test series.
"I don't think there were any demons in the wicket, the ball did not turn square at any stage, batsmen had to apply themselves but it was a bowlers' game," said Kohli at post match presentation ceremony.
"We thought if we are finding it difficult on this wicket, it is going to be difficult for them (South Africa) as well," said Kohli.
Major contribution from Murli Vijay (75 and 47) and Cheteshwar Pujara's patient 77 in India's second innings helped the hosts post a challenging target.
"You need mental strength at this level. (Vijay and Pujara) are two of the most solid guys we have. Had we applied more, we could have given them a bigger target," he said.
"People with all-round ability are hard to find, it is just a matter of him keeping his mental strength, and he can be an asset for India in the future," he added.
Kohli said it was important to win the first Test after losing both the T20 and ODI series in the past one and half month.
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