India vs South Africa live score, 1st ODI: India will look to move past the disappointment of being whitewashed by South Africa in the recent Test series as they now shift to a three-match ODI series starting Sunday (today) in Ranchi. The focus will once again be on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who will be playing at home for India after several months. This short series will also be important as both players try to prove their place for the 2027 World Cup.
Both Rohit and Kohli struggled at the start of their comeback during the ODI series in Australia last month, with both being dismissed for ducks in the first match. However, they found their rhythm by the final game in Sydney, where they put together a strong century partnership and showed they still have the ability to perform at the highest level.
Team selection will be interesting for India, as many senior players are unavailable. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have been given rest, while Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer are still recovering from injuries.
IND vs SA ODI series: South Africa carry momentum into ODIs
South Africa, on the other hand, entered the ODI series with confidence after winning the Test series. Their ODI team has been inconsistent in recent years, but the energy from their Test success could help them perform well. Even without key fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje, the visitors believe they can adapt and challenge India in conditions that may again test their skills and mindset.
IND vs SA ODI series: Pitch report
The pitch at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi is generally well-balanced and gives chances to both batters and bowlers. Batters should be able to score freely, but the bounce will help fast bowlers early on. As the match progresses, spinners are likely to become more effective.
Under the lights, the pitch usually offers grip and turn, but if dew settles later in the evening, batting second could become easier, making a chase more comfortable.
IND vs SA Live Cricket Score, 1st ODI: Follow Live Coverage on India vs South Africa Live Cricket Score Online Streaming, 1st ODI Full Match Scorecard
IND vs SA Live Cricket Score, 1st ODI: Full India squad
India’s squad features a mix of experience and youth. Stars like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja return, while newcomers Harshit Rana, Tilak Varma and Nitish Reddy receive opportunities. The squad composition signals that India are ready to test depth while staying competitive.
IND vs SA Live Cricket Score, 1st ODI: How's the weather in Ranchi?
The weather forecast indicates chilly and cloudy conditions in Ranchi. Temperatures are expected to drop to 13–15°C during evening play. Poor air quality continues to be a concern, but no rain is forecast. The cold temperatures may help fast bowlers early before dew potentially changes conditions later.
IND vs SA Live Cricket Score, 1st ODI: Major injuries affect India’s line-up
Injury concerns continue to trouble India ahead of the opening ODI. Shubman Gill’s unavailability is a setback, and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is still recovering from a previous injury. India will now rely on their bench strength, especially in the middle order, which remains an experimental zone without two key frontline batters.
IND vs SA Live Cricket Score, 1st ODI: Who will lead the 1st ODI in Ranchi?
With Shubman Gill ruled out due to injury, KL Rahul takes over captaincy responsibilities for the ODI series. Rahul will also keep wickets after returning to the squad in good form. His leadership will be tested as India field a mix of experienced names and young rising stars against a confident South African team.
IND vs SA Live Cricket Score, 1st ODI: Hello and welcome to our live blog!
India move on from a disappointing Test series where South Africa defeated them 2-0. With the white-ball format now in focus, the team will hope for a fresh start. The opening ODI in Ranchi offers India a chance to reset momentum and regain confidence in front of home supporters after a tough red-ball outing. Stay tuned for latest updates...