India produced a ruthless all-round performance in Cuttack, crushing South Africa by 101 runs after bowling them out for just 74, their lowest-ever total in T20I cricket. What began as a promising start for the visitors turned into a complete meltdown, as Indian bowlers dismantled the Proteas line-up with relentless precision.
Hardik Pandya Leads India’s Fightback with a Blazing 59*
India were in deep trouble early in the innings, but Hardik Pandya once again showcased his finishing brilliance. The all-rounder smashed an explosive 59 off 28 balls, rescuing India from a shaky start and powering them to a competitive total.
Pandya’s counterattack included bold stroke play and sharp shot selection, helping India recover from early setbacks. His partnership with Shivam Dube briefly stabilized the innings before Dube was bowled by Donovan Ferreira. Earlier, Shubman Gill’s comeback was short-lived, falling on the third ball of the match to Lungi Ngidi.
Indian Bowlers Rip Through SA Line-up
The bowlers transformed India’s momentum into complete dominance. Led by a clinical display across the attack, India chipped away at South Africa’s batting unit steadily.
Bumrah’s Peculiar 100th T20I Wicket
Jasprit Bumrah reached a significant milestone—his 100th T20I wicket—in unusual fashion. Replays appeared to show an overstep, but the third umpire confirmed it as a fair delivery. Dewald Brevis was the player dismissed, leaving South Africa with little hope.
Bumrah struck again in the same over, leaving the visitors hanging by a thread.
Axar Patel Wraps Up the Tail
Axar Patel struck in the very next over, tightening the squeeze and reducing South Africa to their final wicket. The collapse was swift and shocking for a side that began confidently but couldn’t withstand India’s disciplined attack.
A Crushing Victory to Begin the Series
With this dominant win, India took a 1–0 lead in the T20I series, turning what looked like early trouble into a statement performance. Hardik’s rescue act with the bat and the bowlers’ ruthless execution ensured India began the series in emphatic fashion.
