India clinched a 3-1 series victory against South Africa with a 30-run win in the fifth and final T20I on Friday. Hardik Pandya’s explosive 16-ball half-century, Tilak Varma’s fluent 73, and Varun Chakravarthy’s four-wicket haul were instrumental in India’s triumph.
Pandya’s rapid half-century, the second fastest for India, and Tilak’s 73 lifted India to a formidable 231/5. In response, South Africa were in contention while Quinton de Kock (65) was at the crease but eventually crumbled, losing seven wickets for 81 runs to finish at 201/8.
De Kock launched a strong attack on Arshdeep Singh (1/47) during the powerplay, hitting six fours and a six. However, his lone effort in the powerplay wasn’t enough as Reeza Hendricks (13) fell cheaply to a brilliant
one-handed catch by Shivam Dube off Chakravarthy’s bowling.
De Kock and Dewald Brevis (31) combined for a 51-run partnership off 23 balls, keeping South Africa on track. But Jasprit Bumrah (4-0-17-2) deceived De Kock in the 11th over, taking a crucial return catch. Pandya (1/41) then dismissed Brevis in the next over.
Chakravarthy (4-0-53-4) struck twice in the 13th over, trapping Aiden Markram leg-before and bowling Donovan Ferreira. David Miller’s mishit off Arshdeep in the 15th over sealed South Africa’s fate, as they lost momentum from 120/1 in the 11th over.
Earlier, Pandya’s whirlwind knock of 63 off 25 balls, featuring five sixes and as many fours, was the second fastest T20I fifty for India. His partnership with Tilak added 105 runs off 44 balls, propelling India to 231/5.
Tilak’s 73 off 42 balls, decorated with 10 fours and a six, complemented Pandya’s aggression. Abhishek Sharma (34) and Sanju Samson (37) provided a solid start, with Samson making a case for World Cup selection despite his dismissal by a fine George Linde delivery.
Samson’s powerful hits, including a six over wide long-on and two down the ground, highlighted his potential. He and Abhishek added 63 runs for the first wicket, hinting at a promising partnership for the format.
Samson survived a scare when a powerful shot burst through Donovan Ferreira’s hands and struck umpire Rohan Pandit. Later, a six from Pandya injured a broadcast crew member, even as the crowd enjoyed the spectacle of balls landing deep into the stands.
(With PTI Inputs)
