India vs South Africa, 1st ODI Highlights: What a thriller in Ranchi! South Africa pushed India right to the final over in a bold chase of 350, a chase that swung wildly after an 11-for-3 start but fell just 17 runs short in the end. India take a 1-0 lead in the ODI series but not without a serious scare.
This match had everything — explosive batting, clever bowling changes, top-tier fielding and a roar-heavy crowd riding every moment. Virat Kohli’s majestic 135 was the heartbeat of India’s innings — a masterclass in pacing a white-ball game. Yet, South Africa’s lower order, especially Marco Jansen, turned what looked like a procession into a nail-biter.
A full-blooded contest. A proper ODI. And the perfect opening act for this series. India hold their nerve — just about — but the Proteas have made one thing clear: they’re here to fight.
IND vs SA ODI series: South Africa carry momentum into ODIs
South Africa has 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: South Africa full squad
South Africa travel to Ranchi with a strong squad featuring Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock and Dewald Brevis. While missing major pacers like Kagiso Rabada, the Proteas still have enough firepower with Jansen, Ngidi and Burger leading the attack. They will look to carry Test momentum into the limited-overs format.
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…