New Delhi, December 2, 2025 - What a spectacular start to the month for Indian cricket fans! Team India clinched a nail-biting victory against South Africa in a high-scoring thriller, thanks to a masterclass from Virat Kohli who once again etched his name in the record books. The action doesn't stop here, with crucial fixtures ahead and significant developments in Indian hockey and kabaddi. Here’s everything you need to know from the world of Indian sports today.
Recent Match Highlights
Cricket: India Edge Out South Africa in Ranchi Run-Fest
Team India has taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series after defeating South Africa by 17 runs in a heart-stopping encounter at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi. Batting first, India posted a mammoth total of 349/8, a score built on the back of a sensational century from Virat Kohli. The star batsman was in sublime form, crafting a brilliant 135 off 120 balls. This knock was his 52nd ODI century, taking him past Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most centuries in a single international format.
He was ably supported by opener Rohit Sharma, who scored a brisk 57 off 51 balls and, in the process, surpassed Shahid Afridi's long-standing record for the most sixes in ODI history. Stand-in captain KL Rahul also played a crucial innings, scoring 60 from 56 deliveries to provide stability in the middle overs.
In response, South Africa put up a valiant fight. At one point, with Matthew Breetzke (72) and Marco Jansen (70) at the crease, it looked like the Proteas might chase down the target. However, a game-changing spell from Kuldeep Yadav turned the tide firmly in India's favour. The wrist-spinner claimed four vital wickets, including dismissing both set batsmen in the span of three balls, derailing the South African chase. Despite a late surge, the visitors were bowled out for 332, handing India a memorable victory.
Upcoming Fixtures
Eyes on Raipur for Series Clincher
With a 1-0 lead, India will now look to seal the series in the second ODI, which is scheduled to be played at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The team received a grand ovation at the Ranchi airport as they departed for Raipur, buoyed by the thrilling win.
Hardik Pandya's Fitness in Focus
In other major news, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to make his return to competitive cricket today. He will be playing for his domestic side Baroda against Punjab in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). This match is crucial as selectors will be keenly watching his performance and fitness ahead of the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, which begins on December 9. Pandya has been out of action due to a left quadriceps injury and recently received clearance from the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru to play.
Other Indian Sports News
- Hockey: In a significant development, Harendra Singh has resigned as the chief coach of the Indian women's hockey team, citing personal reasons. His resignation follows a period of poor results, including the team's relegation from the FIH Pro League, and reports of some senior players complaining to the Sports Ministry about his 'behaviour'.
- Football: There is good news for Indian football as the Under-17 men's team has officially qualified for the 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup after a stunning 2-1 victory over Iran in Ahmedabad.
- Kabaddi: Pro Kabaddi League star raider Shrikant Jadhav has announced his retirement from the league. The decision came after he went unsold in the auction for Season 12, bringing an end to a memorable career that saw him play for four different franchises.
