India Edge SA by 17 Runs; Kohli, Kuldeep Steal the Show

• By Thetripurapost Desk, Ranchi
• Nov 30, 2025
• 3

Team India delivered a powerful comeback after their Test-series setback, launching the ODI series against South Africa with a thrilling 17-run victory in Ranchi. From Virat Kohli’s record-breaking brilliance to Kuldeep Yadav’s clutch breakthroughs, the match had every ingredient of high-voltage cricket.

Batting first at the JSCA Stadium, India lit up the afternoon with a dominating total of 349 runs. The crowd roared as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stitched together a classic 136-run partnership, displaying timing, class, and control. Rohit struck a steady 57, but the show truly belonged to Kohli, who smashed a majestic 135 off 120 balls. With 11 boundaries and 7 towering sixes, Kohli registered his 52nd ODI century, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most centuries in a single format. KL Rahul added a stylish 60, while Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with a handy 32.

South Africa’s chase began in chaos when Harshit Rana produced a dream over, removing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock almost instantly. Arshdeep Singh added the wicket of captain Aiden Markram, reducing the visitors to 11/3. But the Proteas refused to crumble.

Matthew Bretzki (72) and Marco Jansen (70) counterattacked fiercely with a 97-run stand, putting pressure back on India. Just when South Africa looked set to steal momentum, Kuldeep Yadav turned the game around with a magical 34th over, removing both set batters within three balls. His 4/68 became the turning point of the match.

Still, the drama wasn’t over. Corbin Bosch blasted a rapid 67, keeping South Africa alive until the final over. With 18 needed off the last six balls, Prasidh Krishna held his nerve, dismissing Bosch on the second delivery and sealing India’s hard-earned win.

With this spirited performance, India took a 1–0 lead in the series and sent a strong message that their ODI dominance remains firmly intact.