## Match Overview
India defeated South Africa in a thrilling first ODI at Ranchi, securing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The game featured gripping momentum shifts, strong bowling performances, and standout batting contributions from both sides.
## First Innings: South Africa’s Innings
South Africa, batting first, managed to post a competitive total thanks to key contributions from their middle order.
Quinton de Kock provided a steady start, while Aiden Markram anchored the innings with a composed half-century.
However, India’s bowlers, led by Mukesh Kumar and Kuldeep Yadav, contained the run flow during the middle overs, taking crucial wickets to stall South Africa’s progress.
> “We were looking for early wickets but credit to India for holding their nerve,” said Temba Bavuma after the match.
## Second Innings: India’s Chase
India’s chase began on a cautious note as they lost an early wicket. However, the partnership between Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer rebuilt the innings steadily.
Iyer reached a fluent fifty, and later, Rinku Singh’s aggressive cameo ensured the chase never lost momentum.
Despite a late collapse caused by South Africa’s disciplined pace attack, India crossed the finish line with just a few balls to spare.
> “It was a total team effort. The boys showed composure in the tough moments,” said Indian captain KL Rahul.
## Key Performances
- **Player of the Match:** Shreyas Iyer for his anchoring innings under pressure.
- **Top Bowler (India):** Kuldeep Yadav, who picked up crucial wickets in the middle overs.
- **Top Bowler (South Africa):** Lungi Ngidi, effective with his pace and variations.
## Match Summary Table
| Team | Score | Overs | Result |
|------|--------|--------|---------|
| South Africa | 248/8 | 50 | Lost by 2 wickets |
| India | 252/8 | 49.4 | Won |
## Looking Ahead
The second ODI will take place in Lucknow, where South Africa will look to bounce back and keep the series alive. India, meanwhile, will aim to seal the series with another clinical performance.
> “We need to be sharper in the next game,” Bavuma noted during the presentation.
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**Author’s Summary:** India edged South Africa by two wickets in a gripping ODI at Ranchi, powered by Iyer’s steady knock and disciplined bowling from Kuldeep Yadav.
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Firstpost — 2025-11-30