India‘s momentum in the 1st ODI against South Africa was further boosted by Kuldeep Yadav, who delivered a crucial blow in the 14th over, dismissing Tony de Zorzi for 39. With a review confirming the ball was pitching in line and in front of middle stump, the South African batter was trapped LBW. As the wicket fell, Virat Kohli erupted in celebration, roaring with delight, showcasing his intense passion for the game. His aggressive reaction highlighted the intensity of the moment, as India tightened their grip on the game.
Virat Kohli channels his inner celebration as Kuldeep Yadav strikes in Ranchi ODI
The atmosphere in Ranchi was electric as Kuldeep Yadav delivered a critical breakthrough in the 14th over of South Africa’s innings. De Zorzi, looking comfortable at the crease, was caught in front by a legspinner from Kuldeep that pitched on middle stump and turned sharply. After a brief review, it was clear that the ball would have hit the stumps, and the South African batter was sent back for 39.
Kohli, standing at first slip, wasted no time in showing his emotions as he celebrated the dismissal. With his fists raised high, he roared in delight, rallying his team as India gained the upper hand. Kohli’s celebration reflected the intensity of the game, and it was clear that he was determined to make his mark with the bat and inspire his team.
As the game progressed, the Indian bowlers continued to apply pressure on the South African batting line-up, but the image of Kohli’s passionate celebration would remain one of the highlights of the match. The fall of de Zorzi’s wicket shifted the momentum in India’s favor, and they looked to capitalize on it as they tightened their grip on the match.
Here’s the video:
We all missed this version of Virat Kohli 🥵pic.twitter.com/BYohtNp71m
— Dive (@crickohlic) November 30, 2025
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Virat Kohli’s stunning century guides India to 17-run victory in the 1st ODI against South Africa
In a thrilling encounter at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, India triumphed over South Africa by 17 runs in the first ODI of the 2025-26 series. Kohli’s masterful 135 off 120 balls anchored India’s total of 349/8. South Africa’s chase fell short despite a valiant fight led by Marco Jansen and Corbin Bosch, as they were bowled out for 332 in 49.2 overs.
Kohli’s knock included 11 fours and 7 sixes, further extending his record of 52 ODI centuries. His innings was pivotal in India’s strong total, with key contributions from Rohit Sharma (57), KL Rahul (60) and Washington Sundar (13). The South African bowlers, including Nandre Burger and Ottneil Baartman, struggled to stem the run flow, and despite a late flurry from Jansen (70), India’s bowlers led by Kuldeep Yadav (4/68) and Arshdeep Singh (2/64) maintained control.
In South Africa’s innings, the early breakthroughs, with Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock falling cheaply, left them reeling. Kuldeep and Harshit Rana capitalized, dismissing key middle-order batters, including De Zorzi (39) and Dewald Brevis (37). South Africa’s tail wagged with Bosch and Jansen, but the target proved too steep. Kohli’s spirited celebrations following key wickets, especially when Kuldeep struck, highlighted the intensity of the contest. This win gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with the next ODI scheduled to take place in Guwahati.
Also WATCH: IND vs SA: Harshit Rana gives an aggressive send off to Dewald Brevis after dismissing him during Ranchi ODI
