B Sai Sudharsan continued his impressive form, securing his second consecutive half-century, and skipper KL Rahul also contributed with a solid fifty. However, India's momentum faltered midway, leading to a disappointing total of 211 all out in 46.2 overs against South Africa during the second One-day International on Tuesday.
Sudharsan showcased his prowess, crafting a resilient 62 off 83 balls, embellished with seven boundaries and a six. Meanwhile, Rahul's composed innings of 56 from 64 deliveries, featuring seven boundaries, couldn't anchor the team as the rest of the batting lineup struggled after South Africa opted to field first.
The early dismissal of Ruturaj Gaikwad for just 4, adjudged lbw off a swinging delivery, set the tone for India. The team further stumbled to 46/2 with Tilak Varma departing to a skillful bouncer from Nandre Burger, caught at fine leg.
Sudharsan and Rahul resurrected the innings with a 68-run partnership for the third wicket, offering a glimmer of hope. However, Sudharsan's departure due to a sharp delivery from Lizaad Williams disrupted the recovery. Subsequent failures from Sanju Samson (12), Rinku Singh (17), and Azar Patel (7) led to a collapse in the middle order.
Despite Rahul's valiant effort in completing his half-century, the lower-order struggle persisted. Arshdeep Singh's brief 18 off 17 balls wasn't enough as India fell short, concluding at 211, a notably subpar score, especially on a pitch that aided South African bowlers.
Nandre Burger led the South African bowling attack with figures of 3-30, supported by Beuran Hendricks' 2-34 and Keshav Maharaj's 2-50. The bowling unit displayed resilience after their team's defeat in the opening ODI, showcasing improved performance in this encounter.
Brief scores:
India: 211 all out in 46.2 overs (B Sai Sudharsan 62, K.L Rahul 56; Nandre Burger 3-30, Beuran Hendricks 2-34, Keshav Maharaj 2-50) against South Africa.
(With Agency Inputs)
