Raipur witnessed a thrilling ODI encounter on Wednesday as South Africa defeated India by four wickets, leveling the three-match series 1-1. The match saw centuries from India's Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad, but Aiden Markram's brilliant ton and contributions from the middle order propelled South Africa to victory in a high-scoring chase.
India, after losing the toss and being put in to bat, posted a formidable 358/5 in their 50 overs. Openers Rohit Sharma fell early for 14. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli then forged a magnificent 195-run partnership for the third wicket, setting a new record for India against South Africa. Gaikwad reached his maiden ODI century, scoring 105 off 83 balls, while Kohli continued his remarkable form with a classy 102 off 93 deliveries, his 53rd ODI hundred. Kohli began his innings with a six off Lungi Ngidi. KL Rahul added a valuable contribution with an unbeaten 66 off 43 balls to boost India's total.
South Africa's chase began steadily, with Markram anchoring the innings. He formed a 101-run partnership with captain Temba Bavuma, who contributed 46 runs. Markram went on to score a superb 110 off 88 balls, his fourth ODI century, before being dismissed by Harshit Rana. Crucial contributions from Dewald Brevis, who smashed 54 off 34 balls, and Matthew Breetzke, with a solid 68, kept South Africa on track.
The chase wasn't without its tense moments. After Markram's dismissal, Brevis and Breetzke kept the momentum going with a 92-run partnership. However, quick wickets towards the end, including those of Marco Jansen and Breetzke, brought India back into the game. Corbin Bosch (29) and Keshav Maharaj (10) held their nerve to guide South Africa to victory with four balls to spare. South Africa finished with 362/6 in 49.2 overs, completing the joint-highest chase against India.
India's bowling attack struggled, particularly with the presence of heavy dew making it difficult for the spinners. Prasidh Krishna took 2 wickets for 79 runs, while Arshdeep Singh also picked up 2 wickets for 54.
Speaking after the game, India captain KL Rahul acknowledged the impact of the dew and the difficulty it created for the bowlers. He also expressed his frustration at losing the toss, which he felt played a significant role in the outcome.
The series now stands level at 1-1, with the deciding match scheduled to take place in Visakhapatnam on Saturday. With both teams having demonstrated their capabilities, the final ODI promises to be an exciting encounter.
