India wrapped up the ODI series in style, hammering South Africa by nine wickets in Visakhapatnam to clinch a 2-1 win. However, the loudest cheers in the dressing room weren’t for the margin of victory. They were for K.L. Rahul finally winning a toss after what he jokingly called ‘20-odd games.’
After losing the toss in the first two matches, and battled heavy dew that made defending totals a nightmare. Rahul was visibly relieved when luck turned his way. Choosing to bowl first with a dry ball proved decisive as India restricted South Africa to 270, a stark contrast to the 350-plus scores in the earlier games.
“I don’t think the team has looked at me more proudly after the toss… glad to give bowlers a break on a tough outfield,” Rahul said, moments
before lifting the series trophy.
India’s bowlers made full use of the conditions. Kuldeep Yadav (4/41) was brilliant, and Prasidh Krishna (4/66) delivered a strong comeback after being under fire for his expensive spells earlier in the series. Rahul didn’t hide his delight:
“Prasidh picked 2-3 wickets, which was crucial, then Kuldeep. That’s how you contain teams in ODIs.”
He also highlighted the importance of removing Quinton de Kock early, given the South African opener had blasted a rapid century and looked set to shift gears dangerously.
“QDK batted really well… so his was a key wicket,” Rahul said, adding that India’s biggest positive was their ability to withstand pressure throughout the series.
India now shifts focus to the T20Is, where Suryakumar Yadav will take charge. The five-match series begins on December 6 in Cuttack. The ODI side’s next big assignment arrives in January 2026, when New Zealand come calling.
