Proteas chase down 359 to level series, setting up a thrilling finale
In a high-scoring thriller at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, the visiting South African side pulled off a spectacular heist against the Men in Blue on Wednesday. Despite posting a formidable total of 358 runs, India could not defend their fortress, allowing the Proteas to level the series 1-1.
The hero of the match was undoubtedly Aiden Markram. The South African batter played a match-winning knock, scoring a brilliant 110 off just 98 balls. His innings, combined with explosive half-centuries from Matthew Breetzke and Dewald Brevis, ensured that the India vs South Africa contest would go down to a series decider.
Earlier in the day, the Indian batting lineup looked unstoppable. After losing Rohit Sharma early, the duo of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli took center stage. They stitched together a massive 195-run partnership. Gaikwad scored a fluent 105, while Kohli smashed his 53rd ODI century, scoring 102. A late flourish from skipper KL Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 66, propelled India to a commanding 358/5.
However, the second half of the game exposed India's bowling and fielding frailties. While Arshdeep Singh managed to pick up two wickets, the rest of the attack struggled. Pacer Prasidh Krishna had a forgettable outing, conceding 82 runs in just 8.2 overs.
The turning point came when Yashasvi Jaiswal dropped Markram early in his innings off Kuldeep Yadav. Markram made India pay dearly for that mistake. Along with Breetzke (68) and 'Baby AB' Brevis (54), he dismantled the Indian attack. The South African batters hit a flurry of boundaries, with Brevis particularly targeting the spinners and pacers alike with five sixes.
Even after Markram was dismissed by Harshit Rana, the lower order held their nerves. With just 3 runs needed off the final over, South Africa crossed the finish line with four wickets in hand and balls to spare.
This victory sets up an exciting finale for cricket fans, as both teams will now look to clinch the trophy in the final match of the series.
