India commenced their T20 International series against South Africa with a resounding 101-run victory in the opening encounter at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. The comprehensive win was powered by an exceptional all-round performance from Hardik Pandya and a clinical display by the Indian bowlers, who defended a total of 176 with aplomb. This dominant start propels India to a 1-0 lead in the five-match series and signifies a strong beginning to their T20 World Cup preparations.
South Africa’s chase got off to a disastrous start, losing Quinton de Kock for a duck to Arshdeep Singh on the second ball of the innings. Singh struck again in the third over, removing Tristan Stubbs. Despite a brief rally from Markram and Dewald Brevis, Axar Patel’s introduction into the bowling attack led to the crucial wicket of the South African captain.
Returning to the fold, Hardik Pandya immediately made an impact, taking a wicket on his first delivery to dismiss the dangerous David Miller. The Indian bowlers maintained relentless pressure, consistently picking up wickets and never allowing South Africa to settle. Varun Chakaravarthy accounted for Marco Jansen after he hit a couple of sixes. Jasprit Bumrah achieved a significant career milestone by taking his 100th T20I wicket, followed by another in the same over to dismiss Keshav Maharaj. The Proteas’ batting collapsed under the sustained onslaught, with Anrich Nortje and Lutho Sipamla also falling victims to the Indian bowlers. South Africa was ultimately bundled out for a paltry 74, their lowest score in T20 International history.
In the first innings, India experienced early turbulence. Lungi Ngidi dismissed Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav, putting the hosts on the back foot. Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma steadied the ship, but Lutho Sipamla broke the budding partnership. The innings saw a period of struggle before Hardik Pandya’s explosive knock of 59, featuring six boundaries and four sixes, turned the tide. He was well-supported by late contributions from Shivam Dube and Jitesh Sharma, helping India post 175/6. Pandya’s innings was a masterclass in adapting to a challenging pitch, showcasing excellent shot-making and control.