Bowlers’ masterclass: South Africa’s demise
The day started with the toss going in India’s favor, and they elected to field first. The decision proved to be a masterstroke as the Indian bowling attack wreaked havoc on the Proteas’ batting lineup. The Wanderers Stadium witnessed a monumental collapse as South Africa crumbled for a paltry 116 runs.
Notable contributions from Tony de Zorzi and Andile Phehlukwayo briefly ignited hopes, but Arshdeep Singh emerged as the wrecker-in-chief, claiming an impressive 5-wicket haul. Avesh Khan and Kuldeep Yadav lent valuable support, ensuring that South Africa’s innings never gained momentum.
India’s response: Sai Sudharsan and Shreyas Iyer’s brilliance
Chasing a modest target of 117, India showcased their dominance with the bat. Debutant Sai Sudharsan played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for the chase. His composed innings of unbeaten 55 runs set the stage for the more aggressive Shreyas Iyer, who played a blistering knock of 52 runs off 45 balls, guiding India to victory in just 16.4 overs. The Indian team reached 117/2, securing a comprehensive eight-wicket win.
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South Africa’s Bowlers Battle, but target proves insufficient
Wiaan Mulder emerged as the standout bowler for South Africa, claiming a crucial wicket. However, the target of 117 proved to be insufficient to challenge the formidable Indian batting lineup. Despite spirited efforts from Nandre Burger and Phehlukwayo, the Indian batters were relentless in their pursuit of victory.
Arshdeep Singh clinches Player of the Match
Arshdeep’s exceptional performance with the ball earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award. His five-wicket haul not only dismantled the South African batting order but also set the tone for India’s commanding victory.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
How good Sai Sudarshan looks at the crease…not fussed…not rushed. Good start to what should be a very promising career.
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) December 17, 2023
Stepping onto the international stage is an unparalleled feeling. You deserve every bit of it, @sais_1509.
Cherish every ball, every run, and make it a memorable one!#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/fRz8Xo0gPK
— DK (@DineshKarthik) December 17, 2023
Another solid victory in Johannesburg!
Now onto Gqeberha to seal the series.#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/G1wsxSCq98
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) December 17, 2023
Sunday special#TeamIndia takes the lead
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) December 17, 2023
Sai Sudharsan – 55*(43).
Shreyas Iyer – 52(45).
Team India beat South Africa in first ODI match and taken 1-0 lead in this series – What a Dominating victory by India..!!!
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) December 17, 2023
FIFTY FOR SHREYAS IYER…!!!
– Iyer has 18 fifties & 5 hundreds from just 54 innings in ODIs, What a player.pic.twitter.com/Gd59POUuwn
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 17, 2023
India won their 1st ODI match against South Africa by 8 wickets.
– Team India
— Jay. (@Jay_Cricket18) December 17, 2023
Well played, guys
Congratulations to Debutant Sai Sudharsan and Shreyas Iyer on their impressive half-centuries which took India to a comfortable win against South Africa.
— Saabir Zafar (@Saabir_Saabu01) December 17, 2023
Sudharsan shines in his India debut, scoring a fifty in South Africa. Way to go!
— simeon.zk (@AvaSwanson97917) December 17, 2023
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