India defended their total of 179 as they beat South Africa in Visakhapatnam by 48 runs to keep the T20 series alive. It was a do-or-die game for the men in blue, having lost the first two matches of the series. But, they were able to put in a good shift to make it 2-1.
South Africa were bowled out for 131 with five deliveries to go, as a result of the remarkable performance from the Indian bowlers. Harshal Patel picked up four wickets, while Yuzvendra Chahal got three in the second innings.
India keep T20 series alive with strong win
There was a lot of pressure on the management to get the best out of their players, especially with a home series defeat at stake. But, they put their faith in the players who were able to get the result when it mattered the most.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan were able to give India the perfect start to the game. Gaikwad scored his first T20 fifty as they put up a dominant display early on in the game. But, South Africa were able to recover and limited India to 179 in their 20 overs.
The track favoured the spinners, who took full advantage of the environment. And as a result, India have been able to carve out a sliver of hope in the series. But, they must win their next two games to truly make a difference in the big picture.
