Johannesburg [South Africa], November 16 – Following a crushing 135-run defeat to India in the fourth T20I, South African skipper Aiden Markram acknowledged that the Proteas were “completely outplayed” in all facets of the game. The loss sealed a 3-1 series victory for the Men in Blue, marking yet another dominant performance by the visitors.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Markram lauded India’s all-round excellence and admitted that the Proteas struggled to cope with the relentless pressure applied by their opponents.
“Completely outplayed in all three aspects of the game. Have to give them credit, with both bat and ball they put us under pressure, and it was tough for us to come back. Some good honest reflections need to be done. As a team, we will have a good reflection, take some time off as a white-ball side, and return better players with better skills and execution,” Markram stated.
India’s Record-Breaking Innings
Winning the toss, India’s stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav chose to bat first, and his decision paid dividends. Openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma built a solid 73-run partnership. Abhishek showcased his power-hitting with 38 off 20 balls (2 fours, 4 sixes) before being dismissed by Lutho Sipamla in the sixth over.
Samson then partnered with Tilak Varma in a record-breaking 210-run stand.
- Sanju Samson: Scored 109 off 51 balls, with 10 fours and 7 sixes, marking his third T20I century in five matches.
- Tilak Varma: Smashed 120 off 47 balls, with 9 fours and 10 sixes, becoming only the second Indian batter to hit consecutive centuries in T20Is.
India’s massive total of 283/1 was their highest-ever T20I score on South African soil.
South Africa’s Struggle
Chasing 284, South Africa faltered early, with the Indian bowlers dismantling their batting lineup. While Tristan Stubbs (43 off 29) and David Miller (36 off 27) provided some resistance, the rest of the Proteas lineup failed to make a mark.
Key Performers in Bowling:
- Arshdeep Singh: Led the attack with early breakthroughs, finishing with figures of 3/23.
- Varun Chakaravarthy: Delivered a tight spell, taking 2 wickets and applying pressure in the middle overs.
South Africa were bowled out for 148 in 19 overs, giving India a comprehensive 135-run victory.
India’s Dominance
India’s clinical performance with both bat and ball sealed a commanding series victory. With Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson breaking records and the bowling unit delivering under pressure, India once again demonstrated their depth and capability in T20 cricket.
