New Delhi Chronicle Sports Bureau
Ranchi | November 30
In a pulsating opening match of the three-game ODI series, India edged past South Africa by just 17 runs, setting the tone for a fiercely contested series.
Batting first, India posted a strong 349/8, a vintage ton from Virat Kohli and steady contributions from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. Kohli’s commanding 120-run knock featured 11 boundaries and 7 sixes — anchoring India’s innings with grit and flair. Rohit (57) and Rahul (60) provided vital support, helping build a match-winning total.
But the Proteas didn’t go down without a fight. South Africa posed a real challenge during the chase, making it a nail-biting finish. It was only in the final over that India’s bowlers — led by a disciplined spell from Kuldeep Yadav and backed by the efforts of Harshit Rana — managed to hold nerve and wrap up the win.
The result gives India a 1-0 lead in the series — a much-needed boost after a difficult Test series — and brings relief and renewed hope to fans eager for redemption.
