Ranchi witnessed a thrilling encounter as India defeated South Africa by 17 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series. Virat Kohli's magnificent century, coupled with crucial contributions from Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav, propelled India to victory.
India, after losing the toss and being put in to bat first, posted a formidable total of 349/8 in their 50 overs. The innings was anchored by Virat Kohli, who scored a brilliant 135 off 120 balls, his 52nd ODI century. This milestone also marked his 83rd international century, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record of 51 centuries in Test cricket for the most centuries in a single format. Kohli's innings was studded with 11 fours and 7 sixes, demonstrating his aggressive intent. Rohit Sharma also contributed significantly with a 51-ball 57, including five fours and three sixes. KL Rahul added a valuable 60 off 56 balls to bolster the Indian total.
South Africa's bowling attack saw Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, and Nandre Burger each taking two wickets.
In response, South Africa fought valiantly but were eventually bowled out for 332. The South African chase was initially shaky, slumping to 11 for 3 early on. Middle-order batsmen Matthew Breetzke (59) and Corbin Bosch (67) mounted a comeback, but the key innings came from Marco Jansen, who slammed a rapid half-century in just 26 balls. However, their efforts weren't enough to overcome the mounting pressure.
Kuldeep Yadav was instrumental in stifling South Africa's chase, taking 4 crucial wickets. His victims included Tony de Zorzi and Marco Jansen, breaking crucial partnerships and turning the tide in India's favor. On his ODI debut, Harshit Rana made an immediate impact by taking two wickets in his first over, dismissing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock to put South Africa under early pressure. Prasidh Krishna kept his composure in the final over, dismissing Corbin Bosch and securing the win for India.
India's victory was a blend of batting brilliance and effective bowling. Kohli's record-breaking century set the foundation, while Rana and Yadav's bowling performances ensured South Africa couldn't build momentum.
With this win, India takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The series now moves to Raipur for the second ODI on Wednesday, December 3, followed by the final match in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, December 6.
