Rohit–Kohli Duo Lead India’s Fightback as Harshit- Kuldeep Shines in 17-Run Win over spirited South Africa
India, reeling from criticism after a humiliating Test-series whitewash, found their saviours in two familiar faces — Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The pair, who had been the only bright spot in the recent ODI series against Australia, once again shouldered the responsibility against South Africa in the first ODI at Ranchi. This time, their roles were reversed: Kohli struck a brilliant century while Rohit contributed a composed half-century. Despite late resistance from Marco Jansen and Corbin Bosch, South Africa fell short of the massive 350-run target, handing India a crucial 17-run victory. Criticised pacer Harshit Rana stole the spotlight with a fiery spell that broke the back of the Proteas chase. South Africa captain Aiden Markram opted to field first. Yashasvi Jaiswal, returning to the XI after nearly 10 months, managed only 18 before being caught behind off Burger. Kohli then joined Rohit, and the two stitched together a sparkling 136-run stand. Rohit departed LBW to Ja...