Sanju Samson hits an anticipated Century India vs South Africa | 1st T20 | India tour of South Africa

The much-anticipated India tour of South Africa kicked off with the 1st T20 match in Durban on November 8, 2024. South Africa, showing confidence in their chasing abilities, won the toss and elected to field first, putting India into bat on what looked like a promising surface for runs. This decision was a strategic move, likely aimed at leveraging their batting depth and utilizing favorable conditions under the lights, where bowling typically gets a slight advantage in South African grounds.

India, led by their top-order powerhouse, walked in with intent, aiming to set a challenging total. The spotlight was on their aggressive openers, who have been instrumental in providing solid starts in recent matches. As the game progressed, India’s batters sought to acclimate to South Africa’s fast and bouncy track, keeping an eye on shot selection. South Africa’s bowlers, on the other hand, were determined to make early breakthroughs, especially with their lethal pace attack in home conditions.

Toss

South Africa won the Toss, chose to Bowl first.

The choice to bowl first also reflected South Africa’s confidence in tackling the target with their dynamic batting lineup, known for its flair and big-hitting capability. Both teams brought intensity to the field, aiming to secure an early advantage in the series.

Fans were in for a treat as this opening match promised excitement, with both sides known for their competitive spirit and cricketing skills. The 1st T20 in Durban set the stage for what could be a thrilling series between two powerhouse teams in world cricket, as India looked to take on South Africa on their turf.

1st Inning

Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma opened the Indian innings with a dynamic start. Samson, in particular, was in scintillating form, carrying forward his impressive performances from the previous series. Displaying remarkable timing and power, he scored a magnificent century that left the South African bowlers searching for answers. His innings was a spectacle of clean hitting, with 10 sixes and 7 boundaries, captivating fans and giving India a significant boost.

Samson’s aggressive approach from the outset helped India build momentum, keeping the run rate high and putting pressure on South Africa. Abhishek Sharma provided able support, rotating the strike and allowing Samson to play his natural game. Together, they built a solid foundation that India needed in this crucial opening match.

As the innings progressed, the South African bowlers regrouped, making vital breakthroughs to keep India in check. The middle and lower-order batters struggled against the pace and precision of the South African attack, leading to a few quick wickets. However, Samson’s impressive century ensured that India posted a challenging total on the board, finishing the innings at 202/8 at the end of 20 overs.

India’s final score of 202 set South Africa a stiff target, adding excitement to the contest. The crowd eagerly awaited South Africa’s chase, with India’s bowlers looking to defend the total, inspired by Samson’s exceptional performance. The stage was set for a thrilling second innings, as both teams geared up for a gripping encounter.

2nd Innings

South Africa began their chase of India’s challenging target of 203 with high hopes but quickly found themselves struggling against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Indian bowlers showcased impressive control, effectively containing South Africa’s powerful batting lineup. From the beginning, India’s bowlers maintained tight lines, building pressure and making it difficult for the South African batters to find boundaries.

The spinners, particularly, were instrumental in turning the tide in India’s favor. Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi worked their magic on the Durban pitch, sharing six wickets between them. Both spinners bowled with precision and extracted turn, creating immense pressure and forcing mistakes from the South African batsmen. Chakaravarthy’s deceptive variations and Bishnoi’s sharp leg breaks proved too much for the hosts to handle, leading to a flurry of wickets in the middle overs.

By the 17.5-over mark, South Africa’s innings crumbled, with the entire team dismissed for 141 runs. India’s bowlers successfully defended the total, securing a 61-run victory. This dominant performance not only gave India a 1-0 lead in the four-match T20 series but also showcased their all-round strength, with both bat and ball.

India’s convincing win set the tone for the series, with the team showing their intent and skill on South African soil. Fans eagerly awaited the remaining matches, with India looking confident to carry forward their momentum.

Man of the Match – Sanju Samson