With the 2027 ODI World Cup still two years away, every match now feels like an audition for Kohli and Rohit as they reaffirm their fitness, intent and relevance. Neither selectors nor the team management have guaranteed their spots, adding to the simmering tension, but their recent performances suggest they are nowhere close to ceding ground.
Still, India’s combination remains a work in progress. Ruturaj Gaikwad looked uncomfortable at No. 4; Washington Sundar offered little impact with bat or ball; and Harshit Rana blended early breakthroughs with late-over leakage. Kuldeep Yadav’s 4/68 proved decisive, even if expensive, as India survived a fierce South African counterattack.
For the Proteas, the positives were plenty. Matthew Breetzke impressed with a composed 72 in his first ODI against India, while Marco Jansen’s blistering 70 off 39 balls nearly scripted a miracle chase. Their long tail, including the dangerous Corbin Bosch, kept India nervy until the end. With captain Temba Bavuma and Keshav Maharaj likely to return, South Africa enter Raipur significantly strengthened.
The venue adds intrigue: Raipur has hosted only one ODI and one T20I, both low-scoring affairs. Expect seam movement early and a contest shaped by adaptability and composure under pressure. The series is alive — and the stakes are rising.
