King Kohli Rules Ranchi as His Century Powers India to a Thrilling 17-Run Victory Over South Africa

Updated: December 01, 2025 03:11

Image Source: India Today

Virat Kohli’s record 52nd ODI century (135 off 120 balls) powered India to a thrilling 17-run victory over South Africa in Ranchi. Supported by Rohit Sharma’s 57 and KL Rahul’s 60, India posted 349/8. Despite late fireworks from Marco Jansen and Corbin Bosch, Kuldeep Yadav’s 4/68 sealed the win.

The JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi witnessed a cricketing spectacle as Virat Kohli rolled back the years with a masterful century, guiding India to a narrow 17-run win over South Africa in the opening ODI of the three-match series.

Kohli’s knock of 135 runs, studded with 11 fours and 7 sixes, was the backbone of India’s innings. Alongside Rohit Sharma (57) and KL Rahul (60), he helped India post a formidable 349/8 on a batting-friendly track. The Ranchi crowd roared as Kohli extended his tally to a record 52 ODI centuries, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s landmark in the format.

South Africa’s chase faltered early, reduced to 11/3 by Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh. Yet, Matthew Breetzke (72), Marco Jansen (70 off 39), and Corbin Bosch (67) reignited hopes with aggressive batting. Ultimately, Kuldeep Yadav’s four-wicket haul (4/68) proved decisive, as the Proteas were bowled out for 332 in 49.2 overs.

Major Takeaways

Kohli’s Milestone: His 52nd ODI century cements his status as the most prolific century-maker in the format.

India’s Total: 349/8, built on Kohli’s 135, Rohit’s 57, and Rahul’s 60.

South Africa’s Fightback: Jansen and Bosch’s late blitz kept the chase alive until the final overs.

Bowling Heroes: Harshit Rana struck early, while Kuldeep Yadav’s 4/68 sealed the contest.

Series Context: India now lead the three-match ODI series 1-0 after South Africa’s Test sweep last week.

Notable Updates

Kohli reaffirmed his commitment to ODIs, dismissing speculation of a Test comeback.

Rohit Sharma added another feather to his cap, extending his record for most ODI sixes.

The Ranchi crowd witnessed a vintage Kohli-Rohit partnership of 136 runs for the second wicket.

India’s victory showcased balance—stellar batting, disciplined bowling, and resilience under pressure.

Conclusion: India’s thrilling win in Ranchi was a reminder of Virat Kohli’s enduring brilliance and the team’s ability to hold nerve under pressure. With the series lead secured, India will look to build momentum, while South Africa must regroup quickly to stay alive in the contest.

Sources: Telegraph India, India TV News, MyKhel, ESPNcricinfo

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