Stand-in captain KL Rahul has confirmed that cricket legend MS Dhoni is set to attend the first ODI between India and South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on November 30, 2025, heightening
anticipation for the series opener.
This three-match ODI series follows India's 0-2 Test defeat to South Africa, with the team aiming to reset in white-ball cricket amid the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, while Shubman Gill sits out due to injury. Dhoni, a Ranchi native and former India captain, recently hosted Kohli, Rishabh Pant, and Ruturaj Gaikwad for a special dinner at his home, even personally driving Kohli back to the team hotel, fostering team spirit ahead of the contest.
Rahul expressed immense admiration for Dhoni during the pre-match press conference, highlighting his influence. "Obviously, we have all played under him. We have all been his fans, and we have also played alongside him. So he is a friend. And to know someone like MS, you know, what can I say - it's a really happy feeling. Getting an opportunity like this, to know someone as big and as successful as him as an Indian cricketer we have all respected him as a human being as well," Rahul said.
The JSCA Stadium, which has hosted six ODIs since 2013 including strong Indian performances in recent years, promises a batting-friendly pitch with lively crowds expected to turn out in force for Dhoni's presence.
Rahul added that Dhoni's attendance would amplify excitement: "So if he comes to watch the match, the excitement for the crowd and for us will increase even more. So yes, we're happy. If the crowd turns up in big numbers, we will also enjoy playing here. And hopefully, we can win the game, put in a good performance, entertain the crowd, and MS Dhoni will also feel happy that we won. "
