Bumrah-Varun spin web seals series as India defeat South Africa by 30 runs

Despite a blazing powerplay led by Quinton de Kock, South Africa collapsed under sustained pressure from India’s bowlers while chasing 232, handing India a 3–1 series victory.

Chasing a massive target of 232 runs, South Africa began with clear intent and fearless strokeplay. Openers came out attacking, with Quinton de Kock setting the tone straightaway. The left-hander smashed three boundaries in the very first over, giving the chase early momentum and confidence.

De Kock continued his aggressive approach through the powerplay, taking on the Indian bowling attack with authority. His clean striking and placement ensured South Africa raced to 67 without loss by the end of the powerplay, putting early pressure on the hosts.

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India found their first breakthrough in the seventh over when Varun Chakravarthy broke the opening stand. Rilee Rossouw’s opening partner Reeza Hendricks departed after Shivam Dube pulled off a brilliant catch, shifting the momentum slightly. De Kock, however, remained unfazed and brought up his half-century off just 30 balls.

At number three, Dewald Brevis joined de Kock and kept the run rate high. The duo added a quick 51 runs off just 23 deliveries, threatening to take the game away from India. The turning point came in the 11th over when Jasprit Bumrah halted de Kock’s charge, dismissing him caught and bowled.

The very next over, Hardik Pandya removed Dewald Brevis, triggering a dramatic collapse. South Africa lost wickets at regular intervals as the Indian bowlers tightened the screws. In the 13th over, Varun Chakravarthy struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Aiden Markram and Pereira off back-to-back deliveries.

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David Miller, who struck two boundaries, failed to settle and was sent back by Arshdeep Singh. George Linde, despite hitting two sixes, fell to Chakravarthy’s guile. Marco Jansen’s brief stay ended at 14 runs when Bumrah struck again.

Lower-order batters Corbin Bosch and Lungi Ngidi were unable to revive the chase. South Africa eventually finished on 201 for 8 at the end of 20 overs.

India’s disciplined bowling effort ensured a 30-run victory, sealing the series 3–1 in convincing fashion.