IND vs SA 1st ODI match: Virat Kohli’s stunning century powers India to dominant start in ODI series

Virat Kohli’s brilliant 135 and India’s strong batting display powered them to a commanding win in the 1st ODI against South Africa in Ranchi.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma (Image Credit: BCCI)

The 1st ODI match between India and South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi delivered the perfect start to the contest, showcasing high-quality batting and a dominant display from India in the first innings. It was the Proteas who won the toss and opted to bowl first, putting India into bat under slightly overcast conditions that suggested early movement for pacers.

India began steadily, with Yashasvi Jaiswal showing intent before losing his wicket early. The innings gained real shape through Rohit Sharma, whose 57 off 51 balls featured his trademark timing and effortless strokeplay. His brilliant half-century allowed India to settle into a strong rhythm.

However, the defining moment of India’s innings came from the bat of Virat Kohli. Returning to ODI action after a month, Kohli crafted a majestic 135 off 120 balls, mixing control with calculated aggression. His innings was marked by 11 fours and seven sixes, reflecting both technical command and an eagerness to push the scoring rate throughout.

Watch IND vs SA 1st ODI online

Virat Kohli’s masterclass knock sets up India’s mammoth total

India’s former captain Virat Kohli’s knock was built on several key partnerships, the most significant being a 136-run stand with Rohit Sharma. This partnership laid the platform for India to dominate the middle overs. Even after Rohit’s dismissal, Kohli continued to control the innings, rotating strike effortlessly while punishing loose deliveries. His presence at the crease ensured India never lost momentum despite occasional wickets falling at the other end.

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KL Rahul (60) and Ravindra Jadeja (32) provided valuable contributions down the order, helping India close in on a commanding total. With disciplined strike rotation and late-overs acceleration, the Indian innings wrapped up at a strong score of 349/8 in 50 overs.

South Africa’s bowling unit struggled to maintain consistency under pressure. Nandre Burger, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Ottneil Baartman claimed two wickets each. Their inability to break the Kohli–Rohit partnership early proved costly, as India built a platform too strong to claw back from.

How to watch India vs South Africa, ODI series?

Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs South Africa, ODI series from November 30 on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Read Also: India vs South Africa ODIs: When and where to watch in India? How to watch Rohit-Kohli in action?

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