India produced a disciplined all-round performance to defeat South Africa by seven wickets in a low-scoring Twenty20 match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday.
Batting first, South Africa struggled against India’s tight bowling attack and were bowled out for 117 in 20 overs. Captain Aiden Markram was the standout performer for the visitors, scoring 61 off 46 balls, including six fours and two sixes, at a strike rate of 132.60.
The rest of the batting lineup failed to provide meaningful support. Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks were dismissed cheaply, while Dewald Brevis and Tristan Stubbs could not build momentum. Donovan Ferreira chipped in with a quick 20 from 15 deliveries, but the lower order collapsed under sustained pressure.
For India, Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy led the bowling attack with two wickets each. Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya also picked up a wicket apiece, ensuring South Africa were kept under control throughout the innings.
In reply, India chased down the modest target with ease, reaching 118 for three in 15.5 overs. Abhishek Sharma set the tone with a brisk 35 off 18 balls, while Shubman Gill added stability with 28 from 28 deliveries.
Tilak Varma remained unbeaten on 26, anchoring the chase after the fall of wickets. Suryakumar Yadav contributed 12 before being dismissed by Lungi Ngidi, while Shivam Dube finished on 10 not out as India sealed the victory with eight balls to spare.
