The T20 series of South Africa’s tour of India began yesterday (09) in Cuttack, where India claimed a massive 101-run victory in the opening match.
Batting first, India posted 175 runs for the loss of 6 wickets at the end of their allotted 20 overs.
Hardik Pandya delivered a blistering knock, scoring 59 off just 28 balls. For South Africa, Lungi Ngidi picked up 3 wickets while Lutho Sipamla claimed 2.
Chasing 176, South Africa crumbled under pressure and were bowled out for just 74 runs in 12.3 overs.
Dewald Brevis top-scored with 22 runs. India’s bowling unit was exceptional, with Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, and Axar Patel each taking 2 wickets, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube claimed one wicket apiece.
With this dominant all-round performance, India secured a commanding 101-run victory to go 1–0 up in the five-match T20 series. Hardik Pandya, who excelled with both bat and ball, was named Player of the Match.