India defeated South Africa by 17 runs in the 1st ODI of the series played at JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi on November 30, 2025. India posted 349/8 and South Africa were bowled out for 332. Virat Kohli scored a magnificent 135 off 120 balls — his 52nd ODI century and 83rd international century across all formats — surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's and Jacques Kallis's all-time international century records. Kohli was named Player of the Match. Rohit Sharma contributed 57 and KL Rahul scored 60. For South Africa, their batting lineup was aggressive but ultimately fell short. In bowling, Harshit Rana struck twice early reducing South Africa to 11/3 inside four overs, and Kuldeep Yadav was the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets for 68 runs. The win gave India a 1-0 lead in the series. Kohli also dismissed rumours of a Test return after his stellar ODI performance, confirming his focus on white-ball cricket. His historic century came in MS Dhoni's home ground — Ranchi — adding sentimental significance to the milestone.