India got off to a winning start in the three-match ODI series, edging past South Africa by 17 runs in Ranchi on Sunday night. Virat Kohli led the charge with a record-extending 52nd century, while Rohit Sharma smashed his way past Shahid Afridi’s ODI sixes record.
Kohli Anchors India With a Masterful 135
Kohli came in after Yashasvi Jaiswal fell early and wasted no time settling in. He guided the ball neatly and mixed in powerful shots when needed, hitting seven sixes and 11 fours. The century came off Marco Jansen, and the Ranchi crowd went wild as he leapt in celebration.
Kohli executes a textbook cover drive as India post a challenging total against South Africa
He added 49 runs just by running between the wickets, keeping India ticking along. It was his first competitive game since October, but the 37-year-old showed no rust, timing his shots and pacing the innings to perfection.
Rohit Breaks Afridi’s Long-Standing Record
Rohit Sharma chipped in with 57 from 51 balls at the top. Two massive sixes over midwicket off spinner Prenelan Subrayen took him level with Afridi, and a clean pull over square leg later pushed him ahead with 352 career ODI sixes.
Rohit Sharma celebrates surpassing Shahid Afridi’s record for most sixes in ODI cricket
Together, Rohit and Kohli put on 136 for the second wicket, their 20th century stand in ODIs, joint-second all-time. It was also their 392nd match together for India, breaking the record previously held by Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid.
Middle Order Keeps India in Control
India lost two quick wickets when Ottniel Baartman removed Gaikwad and Sundar, leaving the innings hanging. KL Rahul then came in and steadied things with a calculated 60 from 56 balls. The two added 76 runs for the fifth wicket, ensuring India stayed on track.
KL Rahul steadies India’s innings with a measured 60 against South Africa
Ravindra Jadeja finished things off with a brisk 32 from 20 deliveries. The late surge helped India reach 8-349, giving their bowlers a defendable total to work with.
Pietersen Weighs In on Kohli and Rohit
Kevin Pietersen added fuel to the ongoing chatter about the veterans possibly returning to Test cricket. On X, he said if there was even some truth to the reports, cricket boards should take it seriously. He noted the value players of their stature could bring to the long format.
His post caught attention as discussions about Test cricket’s future intensified online and in the media.
I don’t always believe what I read in the media or on social media. But, if it’s half true that both Virat and Rohit are considering playing Test cricket again, then it needs to be taken very very seriously.
The survival of Test cricket is a hot topic of conversation and if the…— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) November 30, 2025
Bhogle Responds Calmly
Harsha Bhogle offered a clear, straightforward reply. He wrote that the pair “never went anywhere,” reminding fans and pundits that both players are still firmly part of Indian cricket. The tweet cut through the speculation without adding weight to the rumors.
They never went anywhere. They aren’t going anywhere. Rohit Sharma. Virat Kohli
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 30, 2025
South Africa Struggles Early, Then Fights Back
South Africa’s chase began poorly. Harshit Rana dismissed Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock for ducks, while Arshdeep Singh sent back Aiden Markram. At 3-11, the visitors were in trouble from the start.
Matthew Breetzke and Marco Jansen add 142 runs to revive South Africa’s innings
Matthew Breetzke scored a controlled 72, and Marco Jansen followed with a quick-fire 70 off just 39 balls. Their partnership took South Africa to 5-227 before Kuldeep Yadav struck twice in one over. Kuldeep ended with figures of 4-68, turning the tide back in India’s favour.
Bosch Keeps Hopes Alive But India Hold Firm
Corbin Bosch scored 67 from 51 balls, keeping South Africa in the hunt in the final overs. He batted with intent, running well and finding gaps, while Nandre Burger offered support. The required rate kept climbing, adding pressure.
India’s bowlers held their nerves, bowling two boundary-free overs that forced mistakes. Burger miscued and fell to KL Rahul, and Bosch attempted a final big shot in the last over, only to be caught near the boundary. South Africa ended on 332, just short.
Kohli Confirms Focus on ODIs
After being named player-of-the-match, Kohli ruled out a return to Tests or T20 internationals. He said he’s playing only ODIs now and focuses mainly on mental preparation. “As long as I feel sharp, I can contribute,” he said.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia also addressed rumors, confirming no approach had been made to Kohli regarding a Test return. Media speculation about his future was therefore unfounded.
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Series Shifts to Raipur
With the series 1-0 in India’s favour, the next match will be in Raipur on Wednesday night. South Africa will look to bounce back, while India aim to continue their strong start and maintain control of the series.
