India edges out South Africa in thriller — India national cricket team vs South Africa national cricket team, 1st ODI
In a nail-biting first One Day International (ODI) in Ranchi, India pulled off a narrow 17-run victory over South Africa to take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series. �
The Indian Express +2
The win was built on a sensational batting masterclass from Virat Kohli. Kohli smashed a brilliant 135 off 120 balls — his 52nd ODI hundred — anchoring India’s innings after early trouble. � He was ably supported by Rohit Sharma, who added a composed 57, and KL Rahul with a useful 60. �
The Times of India +2
The Times of India +2
On the bowling side, Kuldeep Yadav stood out. He picked up four key wickets (4/68), including two crucial dismissals in one over — those of strides-makers Marco Jansen and Matthew Breetzke — derailing South Africa’s chase in dramatic fashion. �
The Indian Express +2
South Africa nearly pulled it off, thanks to gritty knocks from Breetzke (72) and Jansen (70), and resistance from others like Corbin Bosch. But despite their fight-back, they fell just short at 332 all out in 49.2 overs. �
NDTV Sports +2
Beyond the numbers, this win matters because it reinforces India’s dominance in limited-overs cricket; also, it silences critics questioning Kohli’s form or longevity. As former South African pace legend Dale Steyn put it today, Kohli remains “mentally young, fresh and hungry” — a potent reminder of his value to the team. �
The Times of India +1
Expect the second ODI (and possibly an even fiercer contest) — South Africa will be itching for a response, and India will want to press home their advantage.
