India began their three-match ODI series with a victory, but the 17-run margin in Ranchi left more questions than answers about their bowling resilience. Despite posting a formidable 349, thanks largely to Virat Kohli’s masterful 135 and Rohit Sharma’s brisk 57, India were pushed uncomfortably close by a South African side that refused to surrender.
Kohli’s innings was a reminder of his enduring class—calm, methodical and ruthless when needed. His seven sixes punctuated an innings built on control rather than extravagance. Rohit’s effort at the top was equally valuable; his 352nd ODI six drew him level with Shahid Afridi, reinforcing his reputation as the game’s premier six-hitter.
Yet India’s bowling once again looked vulnerable under pressure. South Africa, who began disastrously at 11 for 3, clawed back into contention through sheer determination. Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke steadied the innings before Dewald Brevis injected momentum. But it was Marco Jansen who transformed the dynamic entirely. His 70 off 39 deliveries was an onslaught India failed repeatedly to contain.
Breetzke’s measured 72 provided the partnership’s fulcrum, and together they added 97 runs with alarming ease. Their dismissals in quick succession, engineered by Kuldeep Yadav, spared India from an even more embarrassing situation. Kuldeep’s four wickets were a rare bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent bowling display.
Late in the chase, Corbin Bosch’s attacking 57 reignited fears of another historic South African run chase. Even in the final over, with 18 required and only one wicket remaining, India were anything but comfortable.
The win offers India early series advantage, but their inability to defend a massive total without late panic will concern the management. Improvement is essential ahead of Wednesday’s second ODI in Raipur.