South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first in the opening ODI against India in Ranchi, with Aiden Markram walking out for the toss instead of regular skipper Temba Bavuma. Markram’s appearance confirmed that Bavuma is not playing today’s match, prompting quick discussion among fans and broadcasters.
At the toss, host Ravi Shastri opened the proceedings with a tribute to the city’s most iconic cricketing figure, saying, “We are in the city of legendary MS Dhoni, let’s begin the game in Dhoni land.” The comment added an immediate local flavour to the start of the series.
Markram chooses to field
Announcing his decision, Aiden Markram said, “We’ll bowl first,” giving South Africa the chance to make early use of the Ranchi pitch under fresh-ball conditions. The choice aligns with expectations of dew later in the evening, which could assist the chasing team.
Bavuma absent for the opener
With Markram stepping in for the toss, it became evident that Temba Bavuma is unavailable for today’s game. An official explanation has not been provided yet.
The stage is now set for India and South Africa to begin the three-match ODI series in a venue deeply associated with MS Dhoni, making the atmosphere in Ranchi even more electric as play gets underway.
