How Did Varun and Arshdeep Lead India to Victory Over South Africa?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy were instrumental in India's bowling success.
- South Africa struggled to build partnerships, resulting in their low score.
- India's depth in bowling was evident despite missing key players.
- Aiden Markram's performance stood out but lacked support from teammates.
- Chilly conditions favored seam and spin bowlers throughout the match.
Dharamshala, Dec 14 (NationPress) In a match characterized by chilly weather and dew-laden conditions, India's bowlers showcased their skills by dismissing South Africa for just 117 runs in the third T20I at the HPCA Stadium on Sunday.
Both seam and spin bowling were instrumental, with Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav each taking two wickets. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube contributed with one wicket apiece, leaving the visitors struggling at 30/4 within the first seven overs, showcasing the favorable bowling conditions.
Despite a commendable effort from captain Aiden Markram, who scored a resilient 61 runs off 46 balls, the South African batting lineup faltered, with only Donovon Ferreira (20) and Anrich Nortje (12) making it to double digits. India's relentless bowling attack excelled, even in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel.
After a lackluster performance in the previous match, Arshdeep delivered an impressive start, using movement to beat Reeza Hendricks twice before trapping him lbw, a decision backed by DRS.
India further capitalized on the momentum when Quinton de Kock was caught lbw off a full delivery from Rana. Rana struck again soon after, bowling Dewald Brevis as he attempted a cover drive.
In a noteworthy achievement, Pandya joined the ranks of the 100-wicket club in T20Is, becoming the third Indian to reach this milestone, as he dismissed Tristan Stubbs.
India’s seamers maintained their dominance under the lights, with Dube clean bowling Corbin Bosch. Markram, however, displayed his batting prowess with expertly timed shots, while Ferreira briefly counterattacked with a six and a four.
Yet, Ferreira's fight came to an end when a googly from Chakravarthy rattled his stumps. Chakravarthy was also responsible for casting out Marco Jansen with another googly. Markram managed to score a few runs amidst the turmoil but ultimately fell to a drive off Arshdeep.
As a birthday tribute, Kuldeep ended the innings by dismissing Anrich Nortje and Ottniel Baartman in the last over, ensuring South Africa finished just three runs shy of 120.
Brief Scores: South Africa 117 all out (Aiden Markram 61, Donovan Ferreira 20; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-11, Kuldeep Yadav 2-12) against India