Ranchi: A breathtaking century from Virat Kohli and a crucial four-wicket burst by spinner Kuldeep Yadav secured a dramatic 17-run victory for India against South Africa in the first One Day International (ODI) in Ranchi on Sunday. The win puts the Men in Blue 1-0 up in the three-match series.
Kohli, batting at his imperious best, smashed a record-extending 52nd ODI century to anchor the Indian innings. Supported by well-crafted fifties from opener Rohit Sharma and stand-in skipper KL Rahul, India posted a formidable total of 349/8 in their allotted 50 overs.
The Proteas’ chase got off to a disastrous start, slumping to 11/3 after pace sensation Harshit Rana wreaked havoc with the new ball, claiming two wickets in a single over.
However, the game turned into a nail-biting spectacle thanks to a stunning middle and lower-order fightback from South Africa. Matthew Breetzke (72), Marco Jansen (70), and Corbin Bosch (67) all notched up impressive half-centuries, ensuring the contest dragged on right until the dying moments. Their resilient partnership gave the hosts a major scare.
Ultimately, it was the wrist-spin of Kuldeep Yadav that broke the back of the South African resistance. He delivered the decisive blow by dismissing the set batsmen Jansen and Breetzke in the same pivotal over. Kuldeep finished with the best figures of the match, bagging four crucial wickets as South Africa were eventually bowled out for 332.
The closely contested encounter promises an exciting series ahead, with India now heading into the second ODI with a crucial advantage.
