In a breathtaking display, India beat South Africa in the opening match of the ODI series at the Wanderers. The visitors claimed an emphatic 1-0 lead, showcasing a stellar performance.
Opting to bat first, South Africa found themselves in a nightmare at the hands of the Indian pace attack. Arshdeep Singh wreaked havoc with a mesmerizing five-wicket haul. Avesh Khan complemented him by securing four crucial wickets. The hosts crumbled under pressure, managing a meager 116 runs in 27.3 overs.
The Proteas’ hopes dwindled rapidly as key wickets tumbled early on. Reeza Hendricks departed for a duck. It was followed by Rassie van der Dussen’s golden duck, leaving South Africa reeling. Despite a counterattack from Tony de Zorzi, Arshdeep’s relentless bowling sent shockwaves. It dismissed crucial batsmen like Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller.
Chasing the modest target, India encountered a hiccup with Ruturaj Gaikwad’s early dismissal. Yet, debutant Sai Sudharsan, displaying remarkable prowess, steadied the innings. Shreyas Iyer’s energy bolstered India’s momentum, and the team cruised to 117/2 in just 16.4 overs.
Sudharsan sparkled on his debut, etching his name in history as the 17th Indian to mark a fifty on debut. His composed innings and Iyer’s play ensured India’s victory, sealing South Africa’s fate in a display of talent and skill.
India’s stellar performance left South Africa thinking of regrouping for the upcoming games. As the series progresses, the question is whether the Proteas can stage a comeback.
Brief scores: South Africa 116 in 27.3 overs (Andile Phehlukwayo 33; Arshdeep Singh 5/37, Avesh Khan 4/27) lost to India 117/2 in 16.4 overs (Sai Sudharsan 55*, Shreyas Iyer 52) by eight wickets.
