source : BCCI
In a high-stakes third T20I match between India and South Africa, India held their nerves to pull off an 11-run victory and take a 2-1 lead in the series. Tilak Varma’s maiden T20I century was the highlight of the first innings, setting South Africa a daunting target. Despite a late power-packed performance from Marco Jansen, South Africa fell just short, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final moments.
Tilak Varma’s Century Anchors India’s Strong Total
India was put in to bat for the third consecutive match, and it wasn’t an easy start. Early on, Sanju Samson was bowled by Jansen, making it crucial for India to stabilize. Enter Tilak Varma. Promoted to No. 3, Tilak took charge with a combination of powerful shots and clever placements, reaching his century off 51 balls. At just 22 years old, he became the second-youngest Indian to score a T20I century, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
Tilak shared a key 107-run partnership with Abhishek Sharma, who contributed a rapid 50. Together, they pushed India’s total to a challenging 219/6 in 20 overs, despite South Africa’s efforts to pull back the scoring rate with a few late wickets.
Marco Jansen’s Late Blitz Keeps South Africa in the Hunt
With 220 needed, South Africa’s chase was off to a rocky start as Varun Chakravarthy and Arshdeep Singh made early inroads. But it was Marco Jansen’s explosive 54 off 17 balls that changed the game’s pace in the final overs. Jansen, smashing four fours and five sixes, brought South Africa back into the contest, keeping hopes alive right until the last over.
With South Africa needing 18 runs off the final six balls, Arshdeep Singh kept his composure and trapped Jansen lbw to wrap up the match. Jansen’s courageous knock gave the Proteas a fighting chance, but India’s disciplined bowling in the death overs ultimately held the line.
Unusual Delay: Flying Ants Interrupt Play
Adding to the drama, a rare swarm of flying ants descended onto SuperSport Park, forcing a 28-minute delay. Players were taken off the field while the stadium staff attempted to manage the swarm by dimming the lights to draw the ants away. Such interruptions are rare, adding a unique moment to the already thrilling encounter.
India in the Driver’s Seat as South Africa Looks to Level the Series
Now leading 2-1, India is in a commanding position heading into the series finale. With South Africa’s ongoing struggles in bilateral T20I series—they haven’t won a series since defeating Ireland in 2022—the Proteas face pressure to regroup quickly and secure a win to end the series on a high.
India, meanwhile, will aim to capitalize on their momentum and seal the series, bolstered by standout performances from young talents like Tilak Varma and the consistency of Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Tilak Varma’s Century: The young talent’s 107 off 51 balls provided India with a formidable score and highlighted his ability to handle pressure.
- Marco Jansen’s Power Play: Despite falling short, Jansen’s late blitz of 54 off 17 balls almost changed the game’s outcome.
- Varun Chakravarthy’s Spin Impact: South Africa’s struggles against Chakravarthy’s spin continued, as he remains the series’ leading wicket-taker.
- Flying Ants Add an Unusual Pause: An insect swarm led to a rare 28-minute delay, adding an unexpected twist to the game.
