India vs South Africa 2nd T20I :The second T20I between India and South Africa at St George’s Park in Gqeberha proved to be a roller coaster match, with twists that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the last over. After Varun Chakravarthy‘s stunning five wicket haul had India feeling like they had the match in hand, South Africa staged an unexpected comeback with Tristan Stubbs and Gerald Coetzee’s explosive partnership, clinching a six wicket win and leveling the series at 1-1.
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Let’s have a look into more details :India vs South Africa 2nd T20I
India Stumbles with the Bat as South Africa Pounces Early
Winning the toss and opting to field first, South Africa’s bowling attack, led by Marco Jansen and Coetzee, dismantled India’s top order, restricting them to just 124/6. The Proteas bowlers found early movement and kept the Indian batters on a tight leash. India’s promising start from opener Abhishek Sharma quickly turned to frustration as Jansen dismissed the top three batters within the powerplay. The game quickly shifted in South Africa’s favor as India’s run rate stagnated, with boundaries becoming a rarity in the middle overs.
India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav, fell for a duck, and Sanju Samson, who was in sizzling form from the first T20I, couldn’t replicate his success, departing for just 0. Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel then tried to salvage the innings with a 40-run partnership. However, even Pandya, who remained unbeaten with 39 off 45 balls, struggled to inject the needed momentum as South Africa’s bowlers kept a disciplined line. With limited scoring opportunities, India only managed to reach 124 by the end of their 20 overs.
Chakravarthy’s Fifer Breathes Hope into India’s Defense
Defending a modest target, India’s bowlers knew they would need early breakthroughs to have any chance. Arshdeep Singh struck in the powerplay, dismissing opener Rickleton, while Chakravarthy capitalized on South Africa’s over eager batters with his mystery spin. Varun Chakravarthy’s spell was nothing short of magical, as he claimed five wickets, dismantling the South African middle order and putting India in a dominant position.
The turning point came when Chakravarthy removed the dangerous Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller on back-to-back deliveries. His googlies and arm balls had South Africa reeling at 88/7 by the 16th over, needing 37 runs off 24 balls. With South Africa’s chase seemingly in disarray, it looked like India might defend their low total and take a 2-0 series lead.
Stubbs and Coetzee’s Last Minute Heroics
Just when it seemed like India was firmly in control, South Africa’s Tristan Stubbs and Gerald Coetzee flipped the game on its head. They launched a counter-attack on India’s pacers, particularly targeting Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan in the death overs. Coetzee smashed consecutive boundaries off Avesh, while Stubbs sent the crowd into a frenzy with a powerful six that soared over the stadium’s roof.
In the 19th over, with only 13 runs needed from 12 balls, Stubbs and Coetzee’s clean hitting brought South Africa within striking distance. Stubbs sealed the win with a decisive four off Arshdeep Singh, reaching the target with just five balls to spare. The partnership not only erased India’s advantage but also left fans buzzing about the thrilling conclusion.
Takeaways from a Series Defining Game
South Africa’s win in Gqeberha breathed new life into this four-match series, leveling it 1-1 and setting the stage for an intense third T20I. Here’s what stood out:
- Varun Chakravarthy’s Comeback Magic: After being out of the national squad for three years, Chakravarthy’s five wicket haul marked an impressive return. His spell reminded everyone of his potential as India’s mystery spinner.
- South Africa’s Finishing Prowess: Stubbs and Coetzee showed remarkable composure under pressure, demonstrating South Africa’s batting depth and ability to finish in crunch situations.
- India’s Top-Order Woes: With Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma failing to make an impact, India’s batting lineup appears top heavy. Adjustments may be needed to stabilize the middle order.
As the teams head to Centurion for the third T20I, fans can expect an electrifying showdown. With the series now wide open, both India and South Africa will be eager to gain the upper hand in what has already proven to be a fiercely contested series.
FAQs
What was the final score of the India vs South Africa 2nd T20I?
India scored 124/6, and South Africa chased it down, scoring 125/6 with a six wicket win
How is the T20I series standing after this match?
The series is now level at 1-1 with two matches remaining
