India’s emphatic 17-run win in the first ODI against South Africa not only showcased the brilliance of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on the field but also produced a lighthearted moment off it. A viral clip from the team hotel in Ranchi captured stand-in captain KL Rahul cutting a celebratory cake, while Kohli and Rohit watched from a distance.
Rohit Sharma was seen chatting with head coach Gautam Gambhir and Kohli. After briefly walking past them, he politely declined to join the celebration as he headed towards the elevator, drawing amused reactions online. On the field, Kohli marked his first ODI appearance in front of home fans since February with a sensational century, anchoring India’s total of 349/8.
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Rohit provided strong support with a fluent 57 off 51 balls, hammering five fours and three sixes as the pair stitched together a crucial century stand for the second wicket. Their partnership came after Nandre Burger removed Yashasvi Jaiswal early, forcing India to rebuild under pressure.
Gautam Gambhir seen talking with Rohit Sharma at the team hotel while the Indian team was celebrating their victory by cutting a cake.🇮🇳❤️ pic.twitter.com/iw6ld3PCv4
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) December 1, 2025
Rohit’s dismissal to Marco Jansen briefly slowed India down, but Kohli’s acceleration in the middle overs ensured the hosts maintained control. His 135 off 120 balls, packed with 11 fours and seven sixes, was a masterclass in pacing an ODI innings. South Africa, however, refused to fade away. Despite slipping to 11/3, they fought back twice to keep the chase alive.
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India’s bowling unit eventually sealed the win, with Kuldeep Yadav claiming a four-wicket haul and Harshit Rana taking three crucial scalps. South Africa was bowled out for 332 in their pursuit of 350.
With a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, India now shifts focus to Raipur, where they will aim to clinch the series in the second ODI on Wednesday.
