India vs South Africa, 1st ODI in Ranchi turned into a historic night for Indian cricket. While Virat Kohli record-breaking 135 set the tone for India’s 17-run win, it was Kuldeep Yadav magical spell that grabbed global attention. The star chinaman bowler shattered a world record held by Australian legend Shane Warne for 23 years.
Kuldeep picked 4 wickets for 68 runs in his 10 overs and became the only spinner in the world to take four 4-wicket hauls against South Africa in ODIs. This extraordinary achievement makes him the most successful spinner against the Proteas in the 50-over format.
The Spell That Changed the Game
South Africa were cruising through a partnership between Marco Jansen and Matthew Breetzke. The pair added 97 runs off just 68 balls and looked set to snatch the match away.
Kuldeep then produced a game-changing over:
- Ball 1: Marco Jansen (70 off 39) – bowled
- Ball 3: Matthew Breetzke (72 off 80) – caught
- Later, he also dismissed Prenelan Subrayen to complete his four-wicket haul.
This crucial spell halted South Africa’s charge and ensured India stayed ahead in the closing overs.
Kuldeep Breaks Shane Warne’s Record
Before this match, the world record for most 4-wicket hauls by a spinner against South Africa was shared:
- Shane Warne – 3 times
- Yuzvendra Chahal – 3 times
- Kuldeep Yadav – 3 times
With this performance, Kuldeep moved past both legends, taking the record outright.
Also see: Top 5 Players with Most Player of the Match Awards at Home
Most 4-Wicket Hauls vs South Africa (ODIs)
| Bowler | Type | 4-Wicket Hauls | Years Active vs SA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuldeep Yadav | Spinner | 4 | 2018–2025 |
| Shane Warne | Spinner | 3 | 1993–2002 |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | Spinner | 3 | 2018–2022 |
| Brett Lee | Pacer | 5 | 2000–2006 |
| Waqar Younis | Pacer | 5 | 1993–2002 |
| Lasith Malinga | Pacer | 4 | 2004–2019 |
Kuldeep now holds more 4-wicket hauls vs South Africa than any spinner in cricket history.
Kuldeep also achieved another major milestone. This was the 10th time he has taken four wickets in an ODI inning – now sharing the Indian record for a spinner with Anil Kumble. Only pacers Ajit Agarkar (12) and Mohammed Shami (16) are ahead overall.
Also see: Rohit Sharma Creates History: Smashes World Record for Most Sixes in ODI Cricket
From Virat Kohli’s 52nd ODI hundred to Rohit Sharma breaking the all-time six-hitting record, and now Kuldeep Yadav breaking Shane Warne’s long-standing milestone — the Ranchi ODI was packed with unforgettable achievements. Kuldeep’s world record stands out as a special moment, proving once again why he is currently one of the most dangerous wrist-spinners in world cricket.
