India secured a hard-fought 17-run victory over South Africa in the first ODI of the series at JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Sunday, defending a challenging total in a match that swung repeatedly before going the hosts’ way.

Batting first, Kohli struck a superb 135 off 120 balls, anchoring India’s innings to 349-8, with support from skipper Rohit Sharma (57) and KL Rahul (60). Ravindra Jadeja added a quickfire 32 to push India to a competitive total after South Africa opted to bowl first.

South Africa’s chase began poorly as they slipped to 11–3, but a strong counterattack from Matthew Breetzke (72), Marco Jansen (70 off 39) and Corbin Bosch (67) kept them in the contest.

India’s bowlers, however, struck at crucial moments, with Kuldeep Yadav claiming 4 wickets, supported by Harshit Rana (3/65) and Arshdeep Singh (2/64).

South Africa were bowled out for 332 in 49.2 overs, handing India a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.