South Africa produced a commanding all-round performance in Mullanpur to defeat India by 51 runs and level the T20I series. The visitors were powered by a sensational knock from Quinton de Kock and early bowling strikes from Marco Jansen, which completely shifted the momentum in their favour.
South Africa Set a Massive Total
South Africa opted for an aggressive approach from the start, with Quinton de Kock taking control of the innings. Even after an early mix-up that almost resulted in a run-out, the wicketkeeper-batter settled quickly and began attacking India’s bowlers with clean and effortless hitting.
De Kock’s strokeplay allowed the visitors to race past the fifty mark inside the PowerPlay. He kept the scoreboard ticking with well-placed boundaries, rotating the strike when needed, and launching big hits whenever India attempted to slow things down. Supported in short bursts by Aiden Markram and Dewald Brevis, de Kock marched towards a superb 90, anchoring South Africa’s innings.
India’s spinners managed to pull things back briefly in the middle overs, but South Africa regained control at the death. A late burst from Donovan Ferreira ensured the visitors crossed 210, finishing at a formidable 213/4 in their 20 overs.
India Lose Early Wickets in the Chase
India needed a blazing start to stay alive in the chase, but things went downhill early. Shubman Gill fell on the first ball he faced, and although Abhishek Sharma tried to counterattack, Marco Jansen removed both him and Suryakumar Yadav during the PowerPlay. India were quickly reduced to 51/3, leaving the middle order with a mountain to climb.
Tilak Varma emerged as India’s standout performer. The young left-hander paced his innings beautifully, picking his shots and showcasing calmness under pressure. He brought up a superb half-century and stitched partnerships with Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya, but the ever-rising required rate made India’s task nearly impossible.
South Africa Bowlers Maintain Their Grip
Even with Varma fighting hard, South Africa’s bowlers executed their plans exceptionally well. Ottneil Baartman and Lutho Sipamla chipped away with breakthroughs at crucial junctures, while Jansen returned to keep things tight whenever the pressure seemed to shift.
A few lusty blows from Jitesh Sharma gave India slim hope, but Baartman’s decisive strikes in the 18th over sealed the outcome. India folded for 162 in 19.1 overs, handing South Africa a well-earned victory.
Match Summary
- South Africa: 213/4 (20 overs)
- India: 162 all out (19.1 overs)
- Winner: South Africa by 51 runs
This victory sets up an exciting decider as South Africa bounced back strongly after losing the series opener. India will need to rethink their batting approach, while South Africa will look to carry this confidence forward.
