India vs South Africa 1st ODI: Brevis pulls off a lightning one-handed diving catch to dismiss Ruturaj Gaikwad in the first India vs South Africa ODI. (Image Credit: India TV News)
India vs South Africa 1st ODI: A flash of brilliance left everyone at the JSCA Stadium stunned as Dewald Brevis flew to his right and pulled off a one-handed screamer to dismiss Ruturaj Gaikwad. The attempted cut shot off Ottneil Baartman looked innocuous, but Brevis stationed at gully turned it into a moment that will replay on highlights for years.
The much-hoped Gaikwad's ODI comeback for stability at No. 4 finally ended at just 8 off 14 balls. The catch also carried an interesting twist - a CSK youngster sending back the CSK captain in India colours.
Before Brevis stole the show, Rohit Sharma had already set the tone with a delicious 57 off 51 balls. His innings were an exhibition of timing, balance, and effortless power.
His 136-run partnership with Virat Kohli defined India's early dominance and ensured the side didn't feel the pressure of Jaiswal's early exit. Eventually, it was Marco Jansen who trapped him LBW and broke a fluent run that threatened to shape this innings a lot more deeply.
Virat Kohli once again has taken control of this ODI innings with his trademark composure. Sitting on 88 off 83 deliveries, Kohli has blended aggression with control, launching five sixes while picking singles at will.
At 200/3 in 30.2 overs, the presence of Kohli remains the biggest factor in India's push toward a 300-plus score. Washington Sundar has given enough support from the other end to ensure that Kohli gets the strike and the innings doesn't lose its stability after the fall of Gaikwad.
The visitors have picked up wickets at key junctures but have struggled to build sustained pressure. Marco Jansen and Nandre Burger struck early blows, while Baartman benefited from Brevis' brilliance.
But the rest of the attack, including Subrayen and Bosch has leaked boundaries. India could run away with the innings in the final 15 overs if they don't break the Kohli–Sundar stand soon.
With KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and a longish tail still to come, India have the firepower to launch hard in the final overs. The equation is straightforward: if Kohli stays, India soar.
A total beyond 300 looks well within reach, but the real question is whether India can push towards 320–330, a score that would challenge South Africa heavily under lights in Ranchi.
Disclaimer: This is a dynamic, live match situation. All numbers and descriptions above reflect the game as it stands at this moment and will evolve as play continues.
