New Delhi: India started their ODI series against South Africa (IND vs SA) with a dominant performance, as they thrashed the hosts by 8 wickets in the first match at Johannesburg on Sunday. The Indian bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan, ripped through the South African batting line-up, dismissing them for a paltry 116 in 28.4 overs. Arshdeep became the first Indian pacer to take a five-wicket haul in South Africa, while Avesh claimed four scalps. The only resistance from the home side came from Falcao, who scored 33 off 42 balls.
Chasing a modest target, debutant Sai Sudarshan and Shreyas Iyer made short work of the chase, as they added 102 runs for the second wicket in just 14.2 overs. Sudarshan, who opened the innings in place of Rituraj Gaikwad, impressed with his strokeplay, as he smashed 9 fours in his 55 off 43 balls. Iyer, who came at number three, was equally aggressive, as he hit 7 fours and a six in his unbeaten 52 off 38 balls. India reached the target in 16.4 overs, with 8 wickets and 200 balls to spare.
The win gave India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series and put them in a commanding position to clinch the series. The second ODI will be played on December 19 at Centurion, where South Africa will have to bounce back strongly to keep the series alive. India, on the other hand, will look to continue their winning momentum and seal the series with another convincing victory.
