SA vs IND, 1st ODI: South Africa vs India, First Match – Who Said What?

KL Rahul (Photo Source: Twitter)

The opening ODI game of the series at New Wanderers Stadium witnessed a one-sided affair as South Africa’s batting collapse led to their lowest-ever ODI total at home, posting a paltry 116 runs. Arshdeep’s brilliant five-wicket haul wreaked havoc, despite a missed chance early on. His brilliant five fer and Avesh Khan’s support compounded South Africa’s woes. Even though Phehlukwayo’s resistance offered a glimmer, it wasn’t enough.

India’s chase, albeit losing an early wicket, saw a remarkable 88-run partnership between debutant Sai Sudharsan and the experienced Shreyas Iyer. Their stellar performance guided India to an eight-wicket victory, sealing a 1-0 series lead. Sai’s unbeaten 55 and Shreyas’s 52 highlighted their batting prowess, securing a comprehensive win after a clinical display in both bowling and batting

Losing Captain, Aiden Markram, South Africa said:

Tough one. Winning the toss, batting first we would have wanted to bat well. Credit to the Indian bowlers. We were behind from the very first ball. Couldn’t recover. We expected it to go around a little bit. In the first 6-7 overs, it does do a bit. Today, it lasted a little longer and they bowled well. Comes down to individuals. It is up to them to assess and then plan it forward. We need to take smart options in a given situation.

Winning Captain, KL Rahul, India said:

I am happy. Good to have a win under the belt. Completely different to what we expected. The plan was to get the spinners in the game. The boys did really well. The boys did well to stay disciplined. The ball kept moving around. There is a lot of cricket being played. You priortize one format. For now, it is Tests and T20s. Everyone is performing and trying to do well for the country. Good chance for them to get a taste of international cricket.

POTM Arshdeep Singh, India said:

I feel little sore. Loving this moment. Thank God and the team management. It is a little different than normal grounds as I was running out of breath. Personally it feels good, I am enjoying my role. I would thank KL Rahul bhai as he said you have to come back and get that fifer. I guess it is about enjoying this moment. When we go there, then focus on what will work there.