India defeated South Africa by 17 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series at Ranchi’s JSCA International Stadium. Batting first after losing the toss, India posted a record 349 for 8 — the highest ODI total ever at the venue — surpassing Australia’s 313 in 2019. Virat Kohli led the charge with a brilliant 135 off 120 balls, marking his 53rd ODI and 83rd international century. Rohit Sharma contributed 57, while Lokesh Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja added a quick 65-run stand late in the innings. In reply, South Africa stumbled early at 11 for 3 but fought back through Matthew Breetzke (72), Marco Jansen (70), and Corbin Bosch (68). Despite their resistance, the visitors were bowled out 17 runs short of the target, giving India a 1–0 lead in the series. The match also set a new batting benchmark for Ranchi’s ODI history.