Fans celebrate as Virat Kohli and bowlers help India overtake South Africa by 17 runs in thrilling Ranchi ODI clash
India started the ODI series against South Africa under the weight of scrutiny, following a 2-0 defeat in the previous Test series. With regular captain Shubman Gill sidelinedthe team faced early challenges but showed composure and resilience, securing a 17-run victory in the opening match of the three-match series in Ranchi.
IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli lead vintage Indian innings
Yashasvi Jaiswal18’s early departure left India reeling, but Rohit Sharma responded with a mix of caution and calculated aggression, scoring 57 from 51 balls and surpassing Shahid Afridi’s record for most in six ODIs. Kohli’s 135 off 120 balls was a masterclass in timing and shot selection, bringing to mind his 83rd international century.
Amidst a flurry of wickets, Virat Kohli maintained his composure, exceeding Sachin Tendulkar for most centuries against South Africa in 50 over and over format Ricky Ponting for most sixes as the No. 3 batter. The duo’s partnership was instrumental in propelling India to 349/8, with contributions from KL Rahul And Ravindra Jadeja ensuring a solid finish. The innings combined technical precision, mental resilience and tactical acumen, putting South Africa under immediate pressure. The Ranchi crowd went wild at every milestone, reflecting the importance of the spectacle. Kohli’s acceleration, especially in these final overs, demonstrated his unmatched ability to dominate in high-stakes situations.
ALSO READ: IND vs SA: Fans go gaga after Virat Kohli silences critics as he lights up Ranchi with his 52nd ODI hundred
Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav seal convincing win for India
After 350, South Africa’s innings started shaky, losing Ryan Rickelton And Quinton de Kock has Harshit Rana in rapid succession. Aiden Markram followed, rejected by Arshdeep Singhleaving the visitors reeling at 11/3. Dewald BrévisThe 37 offered resistance and a partnership of 97 between Matthew Breetzke (72) and Marco Jansen (70) revived faint hopes. However, Kuldeep YadavThe pivot removed both batters, breaking the partnership and returning control to India. Despite the late contributions of Corbin Bosch And Prénelan Subrayenthe required execution rate proved insurmountable.
The disciplined bowling, strategic field placements and aggressive pace of the Indian bowlers kept the pressure constant. Harshit Rana’s fiery spells, coupled with Yadav’s crisp spin, exemplify India’s tactical execution. Arshdeep’s early breakthroughs provided a solid foundation for the innings. The defensive unit complemented the bowling, saving crucial runs and maintaining the intensity throughout the innings. South Africa’s inability to alternate strikes actually compounded its difficulties. Even experienced batters struggled against India’s varied attack, demonstrating the home side’s dominance. India scored a 17-run victory, taking a 1–0 lead in the series. The victory restored confidence after the Test series defeat, strengthening India’s control over the ODI campaign.
Here is the fan reaction:
Don’t count the wounds on my body right now,
there is still light in my eyesLook at my arms,
The pride that was there is pride #INDvSA #ViratKohli #RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/wqqUXC3VYx– Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 30, 2025
The OGs are back in force 🔥🇮🇳#INDvSA pic.twitter.com/k3vd5Y0iYB
– Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) November 30, 2025
He is back in his engine room. #ODI
👌👌 First class #INDvRSA pic.twitter.com/jS9762AV9h-Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) November 30, 2025
This is a great thing from Harshit Rana. Make the new ball speak 👏
– Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) November 30, 2025
This guy can beat some
-Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) November 30, 2025
Kumble won India many ODIs in the 90s, but one would have to pick Kuldeep as their all-time best spinner in this format. He not only maximized the novelty but also evolved and improved to become a match winner even now.
– KASHISH (@crickashish217) November 30, 2025
Another special day for @imVkohli 52nd ODI hundred and still sets the standard for consistency and hunger. Shiny sleeves. 💯🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/IXrCyjkcyg
– Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) November 30, 2025
Virat Kohli’s 83rd century is a testament to his passion and discipline, which continues to set new benchmarks. His remarkable journey remains an inspiration to every young cricketer. A fabulous shot @imVkohli @BCCI pic.twitter.com/B33jitvK5H
– Rajeev Shukla (@ShuklaRajiv) November 30, 2025
Such a good cricket match. At 11-3, we thought an early end was looming. But a combination of courage, skill and a wet ball gave South Africa a breath of fresh air.
– Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 30, 2025
India scores 349 and keeps its cool to win by 17 runs against South Africa in Ranchi!
Dashboard: https://t.co/Eqm8mZhQwr#India #INDvsSA #1erODI #ranchi #viratkohli pic.twitter.com/QjqYh5ylJz
– CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 30, 2025
Also WATCH: IND vs SA: Virat Kohli’s 52nd ODI century celebrations halted after fan passes security and bows at his feet in Ranchi
