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In a thrilling encounter at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg, Team India showcased an exceptional performance in the third and final T20I against South Africa on Thursday. After a rain-affected first T20I and a loss in the second, the Indian team needed a win to salvage the series, and they delivered with authority, securing a massive 106-run victory.
Suryakumar Yadav’s batting masterclass
Captain Suryakumar Yadav led the charge for India with a scintillating century, scoring 100 runs off just 56 deliveries. His innings, adorned with 7 fours and 8 sixes, propelled India to a formidable total of 201/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Suryakumar’s aggressive captaincy and stellar batting set the tone for an emphatic Indian performance.
Bowlers shine as proteas collapse
The Indian bowling unit, inspired by Kuldeep Yadav‘s exceptional performance, dismantled the South African batting order, restricting them to a mere 95 runs in 13.5 overs. Kuldeep ‘s sensational 5-wicket haul for just 17 runs played a pivotal role in India’s commanding win.
Injury Scare for the Indian skipper
Despite the resounding victory, there was a moment of concern for India when skipper Suryakumar suffered an ankle injury during South Africa’s chase. Yadav, who rolled over his ankle while fielding, was immediately taken off the field and did not participate for the rest of the innings.
Also READ: Twitter reactions – Kuldeep Yadav and Suryakumar Yadav demolish South Africa in Johannesburg T20I to end the series 1-1
Suryakumar provides injury update
Addressing the injury in the post-match presentation, Suryakumar expressed relief about his ankle injury, reassuring that it isn’t serious as he can walk. He expressed immense satisfaction in achieving a remarkable century, particularly emphasizing the joy of contributing to a victorious cause. The Pune-born cricketer also highlighted the team’s collective goal of playing a fearless brand of cricket, applauding his teammates for displaying commendable character in the match.
“I am good. I am able to walk so it is not looking that serious. It was wonderful scoring a hundred, and especially when it comes in a winning cause. One box we wanted to tick was play fearless brand of cricket. Really happy the boys showed a lot of character. Kuldeep is never happy with a three-for or a four-for. A perfect self-birthday present,” said Suryakumar in the post-match presentation.
Statistical milestones for Suryakumar
Suryakumar’s century not only played a pivotal role in India’s victory but also added to his impressive T20I record. With 2,141 runs in just 60 matches at an average of 45.55 and a strike rate of 171.55, he has overtaken Virat Kohli in T20I sixes, securing the second position with 123 maximums in 57 innings. Leading the charts, veteran Rohit Sharma holds the record for the most sixes by an Indian in T20Is, with 182 maximums in 140 innings.
With this performance, Suryakumar continues to establish himself as a key player for Team India in the shortest format of the game. As the series concludes with India leveling it 1-1, the focus now shifts to upcoming ODI leg and Suryakumar’s swift recovery from the ankle injury.
