India Beat South Africa by 17 Runs in a Tight Ranchi ODI

India won by 17 runs in a nail-biting series against South Africa in 1st ODI at Ranchi. This set the tone for a gripping series. Chasing a mammoth 350, the Proteas fell short despite late heroics. 

Rohit and Kohli Lay the Foundation

India’s innings began with a minor setback as opener Yashasvi Jaiswal fell for 18. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli rebuilt immediately. They put up a 136-run partnership that stabilized the innings. Rohit scored a brisk 57 off 51 balls, mixing clean boundaries with powerful sixes.

Kohli then crafted a brilliant 135 off 120 balls. His innings was a masterclass in timing and placement. He smashed 11 boundaries and 7 sixes. KL Rahul played a steady hand alongside him, contributing 60 from 56 balls. Ravindra Jadeja added a late flourish with 32 not out off 20 deliveries, taking India past the 340-mark. These fabulous knocks ensured India posted a winning 349/8.

South Africa’s bowlers didn't get much of it, with Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Nandre Burger, and Ottneil Baartman claiming two each.

Proteas Stumble Early

South Africa faced a setback while chasing right from the start of the innings. Harshit Rana struck immediately, removing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock in his first over. Arshdeep Singh kept the pressure intense, leaving the visitors reeling at 11/3 in 5 overs.

Dewald Brevis tried to counter-attack with his trademark aggression. But he only managed 37 before falling to the same bowler.

Middle-Order Resists, But India Holds Firm

Matthew Breetzke (72 off 80 balls) and Marco Jansen (70 off 39 balls) added stability, but Kuldeep Yadav turned the tide with four key wickets. This broke South Africa’s rhythm and ensured no partnership threatened India’s total.

Corbin Bosch provided a strong resistance with a gritty half-century (67 off 51 balls), but India’s death-over plans were flawless. 

India’s Bowling Completes the Job

Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh exploited early swing, Kuldeep spun webs in the middle, and the pacers held the line in the death overs. Every breakthrough was timely, ensuring South Africa never recovered.

South Africa was eventually bowled out for 332 in 49.2 overs. India held on by 17 runs in a match that swung back and forth.

India takes a 1-0 lead in the series. Kohli’s masterclass, Rohit’s aggressive start, and the bowlers’ composure under pressure set the benchmark. The second ODI promises another thrilling showdown as South Africa looks to fight back.