• South Africa defeated India by eight wickets in the second clash of the ongoing ODI series.

  • Tony de Zorzi played a herculean knock of 119 runs.

Twitter reactions: Tony de Zorzi’s ton powers South Africa to a series levelling win over India in 2nd ODI
Tony de Zorzi- South Africa vs India, 2nd ODI (Image source: Twitter)

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After delivering a stellar performance in the first clash of their tour to South Africa, India faced a whopping nine-wicket defeat in the second ODI. The hosts showcased dominance in every aspect of the game, securing a remarkable victory to level the three-match series.

Disappointing batting performance by the Men in Blue

India, being asked into bat first, got off to a shaky start as Nandre Burger claimed the early wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad on the second ball of the innings. Despite the setback, Sai Sudharsan held firm, reaching 62 in a resilient partnership with skipper KL Rahul. The duo added up crucial 68 runs before Sudharsan’s dismissal by Lizaad Williams in the 27th over. Rahul continued his fine form, registering a fifty, but a collapse followed after his departure on 56.

Debutant Rinku Singh showed promise with a positive start, contributing 17 runs. However, a flurry of wickets, including Rinku, Sanju Samson and Axar Patel, halted India’s progress. Arshdeep Singh‘s useful knock of 18 helped India reach a total of 211 in 46.2 overs.

Tony de Zorzi shines in the Proteas’ run-chase

The Proteas’ pursuit of 212 runs began on a positive note, with both openers adopting a cautious approach in the initial powerplay, contributing only 39 runs. Following a dropped catch by Ruturaj in the slips, Reeza Hendricks, supported by Tony de Zorzi, constructed a solid opening partnership of 130 runs. Hendricks departed after a well-made 52 off 81 balls, falling to Arshdeep Singh. Overcoming a shaky start, Tony showcased an array of strokes to register his maiden ODI half-century, eventually converting it into a brilliant century, finishing unbeaten at 119 from 122 deliveries, featuring nine fours and six maximums.

Rassie van der Dussen, batting at number 3, displayed excellent form, contributing 36 runs in 51 balls and forging a 76-run partnership for the second wicket with De Zorzi before succumbing to Rinku. The Aiden Markram-led side eventually chased down their target in 43.2 overs for the loss of just two wickets.

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Here’s how Twitter reacted:

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