With their lowest-ever ODI total of 116 runs at home, South Africa’s batting meltdown in the first ODI match of the series at New Wanderers Stadium was a one-sided affair. Despite a lost opportunity early on, Arshdeep’s outstanding five-wicket haul caused chaos. With Avesh Khan‘s backing and his outstanding five-fer, South Africa’s problems were made worse. Phehlukwayo’s resistance provided a glimpse, but not enough.
Despite losing an early wicket, newcomer Sai Sudharsan and seasoned Shreyas Iyer produced an incredible 88-run combination during India’s chase. India won the match by eight wickets thanks to their outstanding effort, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Following a masterful bowling and batting performance, Sai’s unbeaten 55 and Shreyas’s 52 helped them secure a convincing victory.
Losing Captain, Aiden Markram, South Africa said:
Tough one. Winning the toss, batting first we would have wanted to bat well. Credit to the Indian bowlers. We were behind from the very first ball. Couldn’t recover. We expected it to go around a little bit. In the first 6-7 overs, it does do a bit. Today, it lasted a little longer and they bowled well. Comes down to individuals. It is up to them to assess and then plan it forward. We need to take smart options in a given situation.
Winning Captain, KL Rahul, India said:
I am happy. Good to have a win under the belt. Completely different to what we expected. The plan was to get the spinners in the game. The boys did really well. The boys did well to stay disciplined. The ball kept moving around. There is a lot of cricket being played. You priortize one format. For now, it is Tests and T20s. Everyone is performing and trying to do well for the country. Good chance for them to get a taste of international cricket.
POTM Arshdeep Singh, India said:
I feel little sore. Loving this moment. Thank God and the team management. It is a little different than normal grounds as I was running out of breath. Personally it feels good, I am enjoying my role. I would thank KL Rahul bhai as he said you have to come back and get that fifer. I guess it is about enjoying this moment. When we go there, then focus on what will work there.
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