India defeated South Africa by 17 runs in a thrilling first ODI in Ranchi. The match had everything — a vintage Virat Kohli hundred, Rohit Sharma’s power hitting, and a brave late comeback from the visitors. The crowd also enjoyed the big highlight of the day: Kohli 135 vs South Africa, a knock that set the tone for India’s win.
Kohli’s Masterclass Leads India to a Huge Total
The JSCA Stadium witnessed Kohli 135 vs South Africa, a knock filled with classy flicks, bold charges, and straight drives that reminded fans of Sachin Tendulkar. This brilliant effort came after doubts were raised about his ODI future. With Kohli 135 vs South Africa, he proved that he remains one of India’s most reliable players before the 2027 World Cup.
The crowd roared when Kohli joined Rohit Sharma at the crease, building a superb 136-run stand. Their partnership once again showed why they are one of India’s best ODI pairs. Rohit, who now plays only in ODIs, made full use of an early dropped catch. He smashed massive slog sweeps and, with the support of Kohli 135 vs South Africa, India looked set for a huge total.
Rohit also broke Shahid Afridi’s record for the most ODI sixes with a powerful pull shot off Marco Jansen. The energy between the wickets during Kohli 135 vs South Africa showed impressive fitness from the 36-year-old star. Rohit too pulled off sharp saves in the field, proving age is just a number for the experienced duo.
However, youngsters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad missed out. Jaiswal edged Nandre Burger, and Ruturaj was dismissed by a brilliant one-handed catch from Dewald Brevis. Still, India managed to keep the scoreboard moving thanks to K.L. Rahul. His 60 off 56 balls ensured the team reached 349, with Rahul keeping up the momentum started by Kohli 135 vs South Africa.
Stand-in captain Rahul batted at No. 6 and played smartly, especially when Washington Sundar struggled to accelerate. The finishing touches after Kohli 135 vs South Africa helped India post a total that looked challenging even with dew around.
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Bowlers Step Up as India Hold Their Nerve
South Africa’s chase began poorly after a fiery opening spell from Harshit Rana. His pace removed Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock early. Arshdeep Singh then dismissed captain Aiden Markram, making India’s confidence from Kohli 135 vs South Africa even stronger.
At 11 for 3, South Africa were on the back foot. But Matthew Breetzke and Marco Jansen brought the visitors back with a 97-run stand. Jansen smashed big hits and reduced the required run rate to just seven. India needed another turning point, just like the momentum gained from Kohli 135 vs South Africa in the first innings.
That turning point came when Kuldeep Yadav dismissed two key batters quickly. Even then, Corbin Bosch fought hard with his 67 off 51 balls. He kept South Africa alive right until the final over, testing India’s nerves just as the pressure had tested Kohli during Kohli 135 vs South Africa.
With 18 needed off the last over, Bosch tried to take Prasidh Krishna downtown. But a mistimed shot landed in the hands of Rohit Sharma at cover, finally securing victory for India. The win reflected the strength, balance, and determination that Kohli 135 vs South Africa had injected into the team’s confidence throughout the match.
In the end, India’s narrow win felt even more special because Kohli 135 vs South Africa became the defining moment of the series opener.
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source: The HIndu
