India clinched a tense 17-run victory as a brilliant Kohli century vs South Africa anchored their 349/8 in Ranchi. Despite a fierce lower-order fightback, India held on to go 1-0 up in the ODI series.
Kohli Century vs South Africa Powers India to a Nail-Biting Win in Ranchi
A brilliant Kohli century vs South Africa set the tone as India clinched a tense 17-run victory in the first ODI in Ranchi, surviving a late scare from the visitors’ lower order. Kohli’s 135, supported by Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, lifted India to 349/8 before Corbin Bosch and Marco Jansen nearly stole the chase.
Kohli Century vs South Africa Sets Up India’s Total
Kohli was in sublime form, smashing his 52nd ODI ton and 83rd international hundred. His acceleration after reaching three figures—taking 20 off Subrayen in four balls—proved decisive.
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India’s Top Order Fires at the Right Time
Rohit Sharma struck a fluent 57 and broke the all-time ODI sixes record during his partnership with Kohli. KL Rahul added a composed 60 as India maintained control for most of the innings.
South Africa Collapse Early Before Launching Stunning Fightback
Harshit Rana struck twice in his first over, removing Rickelton and de Kock, while Arshdeep added Markram to leave the visitors reeling at 11/3.
But Matthew Breetzke’s solid 72 and Marco Jansen’s explosive 26-ball fifty revived the chase.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Game-Changing Over Halts South Africa
Kuldeep removed Breetzke and Jansen within three balls to swing the match back India’s way. Yet the visitors still refused to fold.
Corbin Bosch’s Heroics Take the Match to the Final Over
Bosch played a sensational 67, nearly pulling off an upset. South Africa needed 18 off the final over, but India held their nerve as Bosch finally miscued with five balls left.
India Take 1–0 Lead in the Series
The thrilling win, driven by a commanding Kohli century vs South Africa, gives India momentum heading into the next ODI, though the lower-order scare will raise concerns for the hosts.
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