Ahmedabad:
India produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat South Africa by 30 runs in the fifth and final T20I on Friday, sealing the five-match series 3-1 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
After being put in to bat, India posted a mammoth 231 for 5 in 20 overs, riding on scintillating knocks from Tilak Varma (73 off 42 balls) and Hardik Pandya (63 off just 25 balls). The duo turned the game decisively in India’s favour with a blistering fourth-wicket partnership.
India found themselves in a tricky position at 115 for 3, but Tilak and Hardik counter-attacked aggressively, adding 105 runs in just 44 balls for the fourth wicket. Their stand completely shifted the momentum and helped India finish with one of their biggest T20I totals against South Africa.
Hardik Pandya was at his explosive best, reaching his half-century in just 16 balls, making it the second-fastest fifty by an Indian in T20I cricket. Only Yuvraj Singh, who achieved the feat in 12 balls, stands ahead of him on the list.
Tilak Varma, meanwhile, played the anchor role with maturity and controlled aggression, ensuring India capitalised fully in the death overs.
South Africa Fall Short in Chase
Chasing a daunting target of 232, South Africa struggled to keep up with the required run rate despite brief flashes of resistance. The Indian bowlers maintained relentless pressure throughout the innings.
Varun Chakravarthy emerged as the standout bowler, picking up a superb four-wicket haul, breaking the backbone of South Africa’s batting line-up. Hardik Pandya also contributed with the ball, claiming a wicket in his three-over spell.
South Africa eventually finished 30 runs short, handing India a convincing victory and the series title.
India End Series on a High
With this win, India not only clinched the series 3-1 but also showcased impressive depth in both batting and bowling. The performances of Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya and Varun Chakravarthy will give the team management plenty of positives heading into upcoming international assignments.