SPORTS DESK: India’s Explosive Batting Sets Up Thrilling Decider
South African captain Aiden Markram won the toss and chose to field first at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The visitors hoped to exploit any early conditions, but India’s openers quickly turned the tables.
Abhishek Sharma struck 34 off 21 deliveries, while Sanju Samson contributed 37 from 22 balls. Their aggressive approach built a solid 63-run opening stand in just over five overs.
Brief Slowdown in Middle Overs
Captain Suryakumar Yadav struggled for timing and departed for a low score soon after the powerplay.
This brought a temporary lull as India looked to rebuild on a batting-friendly pitch.
The home side reached around 100 runs by the midpoint, relying on steady accumulation. South Africa’s bowlers applied pressure but could not break through frequently.
Tilak Varma’s Anchoring Knock
Young batter Tilak Varma settled in calmly before shifting gears effectively. He compiled 73 runs off 42 balls, including 10 boundaries and one six.
His composed yet classy innings provided the foundation for acceleration. Varma rotated the strike well and punished loose deliveries to keep the momentum alive.
Hardik Pandya’s Destructive Assault
All-rounder Hardik Pandya arrived and unleashed a devastating display of power hitting. He raced to 63 off just 25 balls, with five fours and five sixes.
Pandya’s rapid fifty came in 16 deliveries, ranking as the second-fastest by an Indian in T20Is. His clean strike left the South African attack searching for answers.
Key Partnership and Late Flourish
Varma and Pandya combined for a blistering 105-run stand off only 44 balls for the fourth wicket. This partnership transformed the innings into a commanding total.
Shivam Dube added quick runs at the end, helping India finish strongly. The hosts posted 231 for 5 in 20 overs, setting a daunting target.
South African Bowling Efforts
Corbin Bosch claimed two wickets but proved expensive on the flat track. Ottneil Baartman and George Linde picked up one each amid heavy run leakage.
Most bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, especially in the death overs. The visitors now face a steep chase to level the series.