In a dazzling display of bowling prowess, Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan Shine combined forces to claim nine wickets, dismantling the South African team for a mere 116 runs. The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg witnessed this stunning performance in the first of three one-day internationals on a memorable ‘Pink Day.
Arshdeep’s Five-for vs SA
Left-arm bowler Arshdeep Singh left the home side reeling at 3-2 in the second over, dismissing Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen in consecutive deliveries. Hendricks fell to a precise delivery and bowled, while Dussen was trapped LBW. The early blows set the tone for a challenging day for the Proteas.
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Avesh’s Four-Wicket Haul vs SA
Following Arshdeep’s initial onslaught, Avesh Khan took charge, claiming crucial wickets in quick succession. Opener Tony de Zorzi showed some resistance with a brief counter-attack, scoring 28 off 22 balls, but a top-edged pull-shot ended in the safe hands of captain KL Rahul. Avesh continued to make an impact, dismissing captain Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, and David Miller, reducing South Africa to a dismal 58-7 after 13 overs.
Debutant Brilliance: Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan
With the ball, Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan had set the stage, and it was time for India’s batsmen to shine. Debutant Sai Sudharsan (55* from 43 balls) and the experienced Shreyas Iyer (52 from 45 balls) exhibited masterful batting, steering India to victory in just 16.4 overs.
Proteas’ Collapse and India’s Commanding Finish
South Africa’s hopes of a competitive score were dashed as Avesh collected his fourth wicket, and Arshdeep continued his onslaught, dismissing Keshav Maharaj. Despite a commendable effort from Andile Phehlukwayo (33 from 49 balls), the Proteas succumbed to a crushing defeat.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Impact
Just when it seemed the seamers would finish the job, wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was introduced into the attack. He swiftly bowled Nandre Burger for seven runs, bringing an end to South Africa’s innings after just 27.3 overs.
India’s Convincing Victory
While Wiaan Mulder and Andile Phehlukwayo managed a wicket each during India’s batting, it was a mere consolation. India cruised to victory, with Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan dominating the match from start to finish. The second encounter is scheduled at St. George’s Park in Gqeberha on Tuesday, with the third match at Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday.
Squads:
SOUTH AFRICA: Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (w), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, and Tabraiz Shamsi
INDIA: KL Rahul (w/c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar
Conclusion
In a resounding victory at the Wanderers Stadium, India showcased a dominant performance, led by exceptional bowling from Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan. The Proteas, failing to meet expectations on the much-anticipated ‘Pink Day,’ were bowled out for a mere 116 runs.