India dominated South Africa in the third T20I, securing a 106-run victory and concluding the three-match series at 1-1. Suryakumar Yadav's explosive century, his fourth in T20Is, played a pivotal role as he equaled the record for the most centuries in the format alongside Rohit Sharma and Glenn Maxwell. Yadav's onslaught included seven fours and eight sixes, propelling India to a commanding total of 201/7, despite late wicket losses. Supported by Yashasvi Jaiswal's half-century, their century partnership for the third wicket proved crucial. In response, South Africa struggled from the outset, losing three wickets in the Powerplay. Mohammed Siraj's impressive bowling set the tone, and Kuldeep Yadav's career-best T20I figures of 5/17, achieved on his birthday, contributed to South Africa's downfall. With only three players reaching double figures, South Africa was bowled out for 95, falling short by 106 runs. The series ended 1-1, with the first match abandoned due to rain, and South Africa winning the second.
Key Points:
1. Suryakumar Yadav's explosive 55-ball century, his fourth in T20Is, played a pivotal role as India dominated South Africa in the third T20I at New Wanderers Stadium.
2. The series ended 1-1, with the first match being washed out and South Africa winning the second game.
3. Suryakumar's century, featuring seven fours and eight sixes, equaled the T20I century record held by Rohit Sharma and Glenn Maxwell.
4. The 26-year-old stand-in captain initially scored 26 off 24 balls but unleashed a fierce attack in the second half of the innings, particularly in the 13th over against Andile Phehlukwayo.
5. Suryakumar's century propelled India to a commanding total of 201/7, despite losing wickets in the last two overs. Yashasvi Jaiswal's contribution of 60 runs in 41 balls played a crucial role.
6. Suryakumar surpassed Virat Kohli to become the second-highest six-hitter for India in T20Is, with 123 sixes. Only Rohit Sharma has more (182).
7. In response, South Africa struggled from the beginning, losing three wickets in the Powerplay. Mohammed Siraj set the tone with impressive bowling, building pressure on the Proteas.
8. The spinners, notably Kuldeep Yadav, dominated the latter part of the innings. Kuldeep celebrated his birthday with a five-wicket haul, securing career-best T20I figures (5/17).
9. Only three South African batsmen—Aiden Markram (25), David Miller (35), and Donovan Ferreira (12)—reached double figures as they were bundled out for 95, falling 106 runs short of the target.
10. With the series ending in a 1-1 draw, India showcased a commanding performance in the third T20I, with Suryakumar's century and Kuldeep's five-wicket haul being the standout performances.
(With Agency Inputs)
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