IND vs SA 1st ODI 2025: Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Trigger South Africa's Early Collapse at 77/4
The 1st ODI of the India tour of South Africa 2025 series is off to a thrilling start, with the Proteas reeling early in their innings. South Africa find themselves at a precarious 77/4 after 15 overs, thanks to some fiery bowling from the Indian pace attack led by Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh.
Harshit Rana's Dream Start
Harshit Rana set the tone right from the outset, claiming two crucial wickets in the opening overs. He first dismissed opener Ryan Rickelton for a golden duck, followed immediately by Quinton de Kock, another experienced campaigner, also for a duck. This double strike sent shockwaves through the South African camp, reducing them to a dismal state early on.
Arshdeep Singh Joins the Party
Arshdeep Singh complemented Rana's efforts perfectly, striking early to contribute to the Proteas' top-order collapse. The Indian new-ball bowlers exploited the conditions masterfully, swinging the ball and inducing edges that the fielders snapped up with glee.
Kuldeep Yadav Strikes in the Middle Overs
As South Africa tried to rebuild, left-hander Tony de Zorzi stood firm with a gritty 39. However, India's spin wizard Kuldeep Yadav intervened at a critical juncture, removing de Zorzi and keeping the pressure unrelenting. The spinner's dismissal ensured South Africa couldn't gain any momentum.
India's Bowling Dominance
With the score reading 77/4, India's bowlers are firmly in control. The pace trio of Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, and likely others have laid the foundation, while Kuldeep's intervention highlights the depth in the Indian attack. South Africa will need a substantial partnership from the remaining batters to post a competitive total.
What to Watch Next
Can South Africa recover from this early setback? Or will India's bowlers continue their stranglehold? Stay tuned for live updates as the match unfolds. This series promises high drama, with both teams boasting star-studded line-ups.
Live scores and updates sourced from Sportstar, Sportskeeda, and Cricket.one.
