A Dew-Soaked Gamble? South Africa Bowled First—But Did They Read Ranchi Right?

The iconic Ro-Ko duo—Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli—steadied India with a fluent 100-run partnership, taking the hosts to 125/1 after 10 overs, after an early setback in the first ODI against South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex.

Their authoritative strokeplay brought much-needed calm after a shaky start to India’s white-ball resurgence.

India entered the ODI leg looking to reset after a difficult Test series. Injuries continued to trouble the side, forcing frequent changes at the top. KL Rahul led India—becoming the team’s third captain in three consecutive international games—with Shubman Gill ruled out due to a neck injury and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer missing the match because of a rib issue.

Despite the uncertainty, India banked on ODI cricket—the format in which they have been most dominant in recent years. The return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both fresh from impactful performances in Australia, offered the experience and stability the team needed. With Gill unavailable, Yashasvi Jaiswal opened alongside Rohit, while Ruturaj Gaikwad was expected to take the No. 4 slot. A reworked middle and lower order featuring Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Kumar Reddy provided depth and flexibility.

India’s bowling plans revolved around Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana with the new ball, while Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav handled spin duties, supported by Sundar.

South Africa arrived with confidence high after their commanding 2–0 Test series win. On a rare full tour, the visitors aimed to carry forward their momentum. Apart from the absence of Kagiso Rabada, they fielded a near full-strength squad. Aiden Markram returned to the top alongside Quinton de Kock, with Temba Bavuma, Matthew Breetzke—boasting an ODI average of 67.75—and Dewald Brevis strengthening the batting lineup.

Ranchi’s traditionally slower surface, with only one 300-plus total in its history, added strategic intrigue. Dew was expected to influence the contest later in the evening.

Toss Recap

South Africa won the toss and chose to field first, banking on the heavy dew witnessed during training sessions. Captain Aiden Markram said the conditions would favour batting later and confirmed they were going with a four-seamer attack, using just one specialist spinner, Subrayen. Temba Bavuma and Keshav Maharaj were rested.

India skipper KL Rahul admitted he would have also preferred to bowl, citing the same dew factor. He praised the team’s preparation and the positive energy in the dressing room, especially with senior players returning to the squad.

Also Read: India Outclassed, Outplayed, Out of Answers: South Africa End 25-Year Wait in Style