In a display of remarkable resilience, South Africa leveled the three-match ODI series against India with a thrilling four-wicket victory in Raipur on Wednesday night. Chasing a mammoth target of 359, the Proteas, riding on brilliant centuries from Aiden Markram and a collective batting effort, pulled off one of their greatest run-chases on Indian soil, just days after clinching a historic Test series win here.
Kohli, Gaikwad Centuries in Vain as India Post 358
Earlier, after being asked to bat first, India built a formidable total of 358 for 5 in their 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a spectacular 195-run partnership for the third wicket between the peerless Virat Kohli and the impressive Ruturaj Gaikwad. Kohli smashed his second successive hundred of the series, scoring 102 runs off 93 balls, while Gaikwad raced to his maiden ODI century in just 77 balls, finishing with 105 off 83 deliveries. Stand-in captain KL Rahul provided a fiery finish with an unbeaten 66 off 43 balls.
Markram, Breetzke Lead South Africa's Spectacular Chase
Undaunted by the huge target, South Africa's chase was powered by a brilliant 110 off 98 balls from Aiden Markram. He was ably supported by skipper Temba Bavuma (46) and new sensation Matthew Breetzke, who scored a fluent 68 off 64 balls. The chase truly gained wings with a blistering knock from young Dewald Brevis, who hammered 54 runs off just 34 balls, including five sixes. The consistent Breetzke, with a half-century in his second consecutive match, is enjoying a dream start to his ODI career.
South Africa's decision to bowl first, banking on the dew factor later, was justified as their batters made full use of the conditions and some wayward Indian bowling. This is only the second time India have lost an ODI after posting a 350-plus total while batting first. Ironically, the previous instance was also when they scored 358, against Australia in Mohali back in 2019.
Concerns for India as Bowling Falters
The Indian bowling attack had a night to forget. The trio of spinners managed just one wicket in 21 overs, conceding 147 runs. Of particular concern was the expensive spell from pacer Prasidh Krishna, who gave away 85 runs in just 8.2 overs. India also rued a crucial dropped catch when Yashasvi Jaiswal put down Aiden Markram at long-on when the batter was on 53. The missed opportunity proved costly.
Despite a late wobble that saw Tony de Zorzi retire hurt, Corbin Bosch guided South Africa home with four balls to spare, sealing a memorable victory. The series is now poised perfectly at 1-1, setting up a thrilling decider.
