India will step into the second ODI against South Africa with renewed confidence after edging out a thrilling 17-run victory in the opening match at Ranchi. The hosts, buoyed by Virat Kohli’s masterful century and a spirited all-round performance, will aim to carry forward the momentum at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

Kohli’s vintage hundred powers India

Batting first in Ranchi, India posted an imposing 349 for 8, led by Virat Kohli’s sublime knock of 135, his 52nd ODI century. The former captain rolled back the years with a commanding display of stroke-play, striking 11 fours and seven sixes. His 136-run partnership with Rohit Sharma laid the platform for India’s total, with the skipper contributing a brisk 57.

KL Rahul added further impetus with a rapid 60 off just 36 balls, ensuring India maximised their death overs.

Proteas fight hard but fall short

South Africa remained competitive throughout the chase, thanks to a fearless lower-order effort. The visitors stayed in contention deep into the final overs before being bowled out for 332, falling 17 runs short of the target. Despite the defeat, their spirited batting ensured an engaging contest.

The win was particularly significant for India, coming just days after a shock Test whitewash at home, including a record 408-run loss — the heaviest defeat in their red-ball history.

2nd ODI: Match schedule and broadcast

The second ODI takes place today, 3 December 2025, in Raipur. The day-night fixture begins at 1:30 PM IST, with the toss at 1:00 PM IST.

Fans can follow the action on the Star Sports Network, while streaming will be available via the Jio Hotstar app and website.

Major milestones from the first ODI

The Ranchi match saw several historic achievements:

  • Rohit Sharma overtook Shahid Afridi to become the leading six-hitter in ODI cricket with 352 sixes.
  • Kohli’s landmark century reaffirmed his position among the sport’s greatest ODI batters.
  • Rahul’s explosive knock further strengthened India’s middle-order firepower.
  • The match marked a milestone for the ‘Ro-Ko’ partnership — Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have now played 392 international matches together, surpassing the iconic pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid (391). They are now India’s most experienced duo in terms of joint appearances, a distinction matched by only a handful of pairs globally.

India eye series lead

As the teams meet in Raipur, India will seek both continuity and consolidation. A victory would give the hosts a commanding 2-0 series lead and a chance to restore pride after the Test setback. South Africa, meanwhile, will aim to level the contest and reclaim momentum.