Ranchi witnessed one of the most dramatic ODIs in recent memory as India scraped home by 17 runs, surviving a fearless South African resurgence led by Marco Jansen. The Proteas, famed for their mammoth run chase against Australia in 2016, almost conjured another unforgettable pursuit despite losing three wickets for just 11 runs at the start.
India’s innings had been shaped by a masterclass from Virat Kohli. The veteran, adopting a perfect blend of timing and aggression, compiled a majestic unbeaten 135 from 120 balls. His seven sixes electrified the crowd, while Rohit Sharma’s 57 off 51 balls ensured the run rate never dipped. Rohit’s third six of the innings allowed him to equal Shahid Afridi’s long-standing record for most ODI sixes—an achievement that sent the stands into raptures.
At 349 for 8, India believed they had enough. But South Africa’s middle and lower order had other plans. Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke led the initial counter-attack. After de Zorzi’s fluent 39, Dewald Brevis added 37 with typical flair. Yet the real storm arrived when Jansen strode out with intent visible from the first stroke.
His 70 from 39 balls was a brutal exhibition of ball-striking. Every Indian bowler suffered as he launched deliveries across the park, sharing a 97-run stand with Breetzke, who held the innings together with 72. Their dismissals, both claimed by Kuldeep Yadav, shifted momentum back to India.
Still, Corbin Bosch ignited fresh hope, hammering 57 from 51 balls. South Africa entered the final over needing 18 with one wicket remaining—a scenario that momentarily hushed the home crowd. But India held their nerve at the death.
Ultimately, the match underscored India’s batting superiority and South Africa’s unwavering fighting spirit. The clash sets the perfect tone for the remaining fixtures, with the second ODI to be played in Raipur on Wednesday.