By Razeen Gutta
Virat Kohli showcased his timeless class with a stunning 135 off 120 balls, leading India to a 17-run victory in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi on Sunday.
Kohli’s 52nd ODI century, marked by 11 fours and seven sixes, anchored India’s imposing 349-8 after Rohit Sharma’s brisk 57 sparked an aggressive start.
The pair added 136 for the second wicket, leaving the Proteas chasing a daunting target.
The visitors’ reply unravelled early, slipping to 11-3, but Marco Jansen (70 off 39 balls) and Corbin Bosch (67 off 51 balls) breathed life into the chase.
Yet still, India’s bowlers closed the deal, restricting South Africa to 332 in 49.2 overs.
Harshit Rana struck twice early, Kuldeep Yadav took key wickets, and Prasidh Krishna sealed the win in a tense final over.
Kohli, dropped early, was unflappable, while Rohit — also retired-from-T20s — hinted at lingering firepower.
KL Rahul and Jadeja also chipped in.
A clinical win gives India the edge in the three-match series. Can South Africa bounce back? Find out on Wednesday when the first ball from Raipur is set to be bowled at 10am live on SuperSport.
Pictured above: Virat Kohli
Source: @bcci
