Image credits: X(cricketfeedin)
On November 15, 2024, at Johannesburg’s Wanderers Stadium, India secured a commanding 135-run victory over South Africa in the fourth and final T20 International, clinching the series 3-1. This match was notable for record-breaking performances by India’s batsmen and a dominant display by their bowlers.
Match Summary
- India’s Innings: 283/1 in 20 overs
- South Africa’s Innings: 148 all out in 17.2 overs
- Result: India won by 135 runs
Key Performances
- Sanju Samson: Unbeaten 109 runs off 56 balls
- Tilak Varma: Unbeaten 120 runs off 47 balls
- Arshdeep Singh: 3 wickets for 20 runs
- Hardik Pandya: 1 wicket for 8 runs
India’s Batting Dominance
Opting to bat first, India amassed a formidable total of 283/1, their highest in T20 Internationals. The innings was anchored by a record-breaking second-wicket partnership between Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma, who added 210 runs off just 85 balls. This stand set a new benchmark for the highest second-wicket partnership in T20Is.
- Sanju Samson’s Century: Samson showcased his aggressive stroke play, hitting 6 fours and 9 sixes en route to his unbeaten 109. This was his third T20I century in five innings, highlighting his exceptional form.
- Tilak Varma’s Century: Varma continued his impressive run by scoring his second consecutive T20I century, an unbeaten 120, which included 10 sixes. His innings was marked by powerful hitting and strategic placement.
South Africa’s Struggles
Chasing a daunting target, South Africa’s innings faltered early. Indian seamers Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya exploited the conditions effectively, reducing the hosts to 10/4 within the first few overs. Despite a brief resistance from Tristan Stubbs, who top-scored with 43 runs, South Africa was bowled out for 148 in 17.2 overs.
Bowling Highlights
- Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer delivered a stellar performance, claiming 3 wickets for 20 runs, dismantling South Africa’s top order.
- Hardik Pandya: Contributing with the ball, Pandya took 1 wicket for just 8 runs, maintaining pressure on the South African batsmen.
Captains’ Remarks
- Suryakumar Yadav (India): “Both Sanju and Tilak played brilliant knocks. We knew there would be something in this wicket when the lights come on and we stuck to our lines with the ball. It is always challenging to win in South Africa, so this is a special day that will stay with me forever.”
- Aiden Markram (South Africa): “We were completely outplayed in all three aspects of the game. You have to give India a lot of … ; with bat and ball, they put us under pressure in … .”
Series Outcome
With this victory, India clinched the four-match T20I series 3-1, showcasing their dominance in the shortest format of the game. The series featured remarkable individual performances and highlighted India’s depth in both batting and bowling departments.
