Raipur: India suffered yet another setback as they lost the toss for the 20th consecutive ODI, with South Africa opting to bowl first once again. Team India has retained the same playing XI, while South Africa made three changes, bringing in Temba Bavuma, Keshav Maharaj, and Lungi Ngidi.
Amid ongoing discussions about India’s team combination and dressing room dynamics, the focus will once again be on Virat Kohli’s form and Rohit Sharma’s leadership as India aims to bounce back and secure the ODI series. Questions remain over the batting order, with Ruturaj Gaikwad struggling at No. 4, Washington Sundar’s shifting role causing uncertainty, and Harshit Rana’s early breakthroughs offset by expensive overs later in the innings.
India’s bowling strength was highlighted by Kuldeep Yadav’s four-wicket haul, but South Africa staged a strong recovery. Marco Jansen’s 70 and debutant Matthew Breetzke’s 72 pushed the visitors to a competitive total, showcasing the narrow margin for India.
With key South African players returning and unfamiliar conditions in Raipur, India faces a stiffer challenge in the second ODI, requiring balanced batting, disciplined bowling, and sharp fielding to stay in contention for the series.
