It was a walk in the park for the Indian team as the hosts demolished South Africa by seven wickets in the third and final ODI to bag the three-match series 2-1. Indian bowlers ran riot to bundle out the Proteas for a paltry 99 inside just 28 overs before the hosts chased down the target without breaking a sweat.

Indian skipper Shikhar Dhawan won the toss and invited South Africa to bat in the seres-decider, a decision that worked wonders for the Men in Blue. Sundar drew the first blood for India by removing Quinton de Kock cheaply on just 6 off 10 balls before Siraj got the wickets of South Africa opener Janneman Malan (15) and Reeza Hendricks (3).

After Siraj's twin blow, young all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed piled more misery on South Africa as he continued his fine form with the ball after shining on debut, Ahmed picked up the prized wickets of Aiden Markram (9) and Heinrich Klaasen (34).

Sundar returned to pick up the wicket of South Africa's stand-in skipper David Miller to finish with excellent figures of 2/15 in his four overs before Kuldeep Yadav ran through the tail to pick up a four-wicket haul and bundle out the Proteas for just 99 runs.

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The run chase turned out to be a cakewalk for India after the brilliant effort from the bowlers as Shubman Gill missed out on a well-deserved half-century by just one run. Opening the batting with skipper Dhawan, Gill scored 49 off 57 balls to set up a thumping win for the hosts.

He was well supported by Shreyas Iyer, who scored an unbeaten 28 off 23 balls and continued his purple patch. It was an off day for left-hander Ishan Kishan, who could only manage 10 off 18 balls before edging one to De Kock off Bjorn Fortuin's bowling.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanju-samson-to-be-indias-new-finisher-star-batter-hints-at-new-role-from-indian-team-management-524450">Sanju Samson to be India's new finisher? Star batter hints at new role from Indian team management</a>

Nonetheless, it was a comfortable run chase for India as the hosts registered a convincing victory to bag the three-match series 2-1. India had gotten off to a losing start in the ODIs but bounced back to win their next two games in a row to take the series.

It was a walk in the park for the Indian team as the hosts demolished South Africa by seven wickets in the third and final ODI to bag the three-match series 2-1.

It was a walk in the park for the Indian team as the hosts demolished South Africa by seven wickets in the third and final ODI to bag the three-match series 2-1. Indian bowlers ran riot to bundle out the Proteas for a paltry 99 inside just 28 overs before the hosts chased down the target without breaking a sweat. Indian skipper Shikhar Dhawan won the toss and invited South Africa to bat in the seres-decider, a decision that worked wonders for the Men in Blue. Sundar drew the first blood for India by removing Quinton de Kock cheaply on just 6 off 10 balls before Siraj got the wickets of South Africa opener Janneman Malan (15) and Reeza Hendricks (3). After Siraj's twin blow, young all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed piled more misery on South Africa as he continued his fine form with the ball after shining on debut, Ahmed picked up the prized wickets of Aiden Markram (9) and Heinrich Klaasen (34). Sundar returned to pick up the wicket of South Africa's stand-in skipper David Miller to finish with excellent figures of 2/15 in his four overs before Kuldeep Yadav ran through the tail to pick up a four-wicket haul and bundle out the Proteas for just 99 runs. Also Read: 99 all-out! South Africa register lowest ODI score versus India after Kuldeep Yadav's 4-fer The run chase turned out to be a cakewalk for India after the brilliant effort from the bowlers as Shubman Gill missed out on a well-deserved half-century by just one run. Opening the batting with skipper Dhawan, Gill scored 49 off 57 balls to set up a thumping win for the hosts. He was well supported by Shreyas Iyer, who scored an unbeaten 28 off 23 balls and continued his purple patch. It was an off day for left-hander Ishan Kishan, who could only manage 10 off 18 balls before edging one to De Kock off Bjorn Fortuin's bowling. Also Read: Sanju Samson to be India's new finisher? Star batter hints at new role from Indian team management Nonetheless, it was a comfortable run chase for India as the hosts registered a convincing victory to bag the three-match series 2-1. India had gotten off to a losing start in the ODIs but bounced back to win their next two games in a row to take the series.

Md. Siraj, Washington Sundar run riot as India crush South Africa by 7 wickets in 3rd ODI to clinch series 2-1

India and South Africa have locked horns in the third and final ODI, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, on Tuesday (October 11). After Shikhar Dhawan-led India's impressive seven-wicket series-levelling win in the second and penultimate encounter at Ranchi, on Sunday (October 09), both sides entered the series decider with all to play for. In the absence of regular skipper Temba Bavuma and vice-captain Keshav Maharaj, David Miller got the opportunity to captain the side for the first time in ODIs. However, the power-hitter's debut as ODI captain got off to a poor start as the Proteas bundled out for a paltry 99 in 27.1 overs.

Opting to bowl first, India rode on impressive opening spells from Md Siraj and Avesh Khan. While Siraj accounted for the wickets of&nbsp;Janneman Malan and Reeza Hendricks, Washington Sundar removed Quinton de Kock and captain Miller. Kuldeep Yadav then wreaked havoc by dismissing the lower order in a flash, returning with match figures of 4 for 18 in 4.1 overs. As a result, SA folded for their fourth-lowest ODI score. In addition, this is their lowest total against the Men in Blue.

Lowest totals for South Africa in ODIs 
69 vs Aus Sydney 1993 
83 vs Eng Nottingham 2008 
83 vs Eng Manchester 2022 
99 vs Ind Delhi 2022 
Previous lowest vs India: 117 in Nairobi, 1999

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In the mid-innings break, Kuldeep told the broadcasters, "Feeling happy to take four wickets, have taken four wickets after such a long time. I was trying something different before IPL, and I am enjoying my bowling since then. I missed the hat-trick, could have bowled quicker. Should have changed the angle. I think Washington bowled really well. The wicket was gripping, I tried to bowl seam-up deliveries, tried to mix it up with the pace, tried to set up the batters. I was working on my rhythm, I was a bit slower before my injury. I am not compromising with spin, just trying to work on my rhythm."

India are well on course for a terrific series win, amid the absence of many of their regular players. On the other hand, SA will blame their batters for not standing tall in the series finale as the Proteas are now set to feature in the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifiers, in Zimbabwe, after already struggling in the bottom half of the World Super League points table.&nbsp;

India and South Africa have locked horns in the third and final ODI, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, on Tuesday (October 11). After Shikhar Dhawan-led India's impressive seven-wicket series-levelling win in the second and penultimate encounter at Ranchi, on Sunday (October 09), both sides entered the series decider with all to play for.

India and South Africa have locked horns in the third and final ODI, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, on Tuesday (October 11). After Shikhar Dhawan-led India's impressive seven-wicket series-levelling win in the second and penultimate encounter at Ranchi, on Sunday (October 09), both sides entered the series decider with all to play for. In the absence of regular skipper Temba Bavuma and vice-captain Keshav Maharaj, David Miller got the opportunity to captain the side for the first time in ODIs. However, the power-hitter's debut as ODI captain got off to a poor start as the Proteas bundled out for a paltry 99 in 27.1 overs. Opting to bowl first, India rode on impressive opening spells from Md Siraj and Avesh Khan. While Siraj accounted for the wickets of Janneman Malan and Reeza Hendricks, Washington Sundar removed Quinton de Kock and captain Miller. Kuldeep Yadav then wreaked havoc by dismissing the lower order in a flash, returning with match figures of 4 for 18 in 4.1 overs. As a result, SA folded for their fourth-lowest ODI score. In addition, this is their lowest total against the Men in Blue. Lowest totals for South Africa in ODIs 69 vs Aus Sydney 1993 83 vs Eng Nottingham 2008 83 vs Eng Manchester 2022 99 vs Ind Delhi 2022 Previous lowest vs India: 117 in Nairobi, 1999 ALSO READ | 'Going by your logic...': Former Indian opener hits back at troll who termed him a 'failed cricketer' In the mid-innings break, Kuldeep told the broadcasters, "Feeling happy to take four wickets, have taken four wickets after such a long time. I was trying something different before IPL, and I am enjoying my bowling since then. I missed the hat-trick, could have bowled quicker. Should have changed the angle. I think Washington bowled really well. The wicket was gripping, I tried to bowl seam-up deliveries, tried to mix it up with the pace, tried to set up the batters. I was working on my rhythm, I was a bit slower before my injury. I am not compromising with spin, just trying to work on my rhythm." India are well on course for a terrific series win, amid the absence of many of their regular players. On the other hand, SA will blame their batters for not standing tall in the series finale as the Proteas are now set to feature in the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifiers, in Zimbabwe, after already struggling in the bottom half of the World Super League points table.

99 all-out! South Africa register lowest ODI score versus India after Kuldeep Yadav's 4-fer

India wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson has said he has been asked by the Indian team management to take up the finisher's role in white-ball cricket going forward. Samson, who has mostly batted up the order in his career so far, is ready to bat lower down the order and finish games for India when required.

While Dinesh Karthik has been India's designated finisher in T20Is, the Men in Blue have looked up to the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja to don the role in ODIs ever since the departure of the legendary MS Dhoni. Samson has been batting at no.5 for India in their ongoing ODI series against South Africa at home and has looked in good touch.

He slammed a brilliant knock of 86 runs in the first ODI against the Proteas and followed it up with a gritty 30 in the second ODI. Samson said he has been training to bat in several different positions and the message from the dressing room has been that he should be ready to finish games for India.

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"Absolutely, I have been practicing different kind of roles and I think last couple of years, I have put in time to understand different types of roles that I need to play in different teams. So, I am enjoying it," Samson told Star Sports ahead of the third and final ODI against South Africa on Tuesday.

"I have been given instructions to be ready to do this finishing role from last one year. Physically, I have been doing top-order batting but mentally I have been understanding the game better on how to react to situations better and how people have done it beautifully in the past. Learning from the history, so yes lot of learning has gone into this," he added.

With India's T20 World Cup squad already in Australia to prepare for the showpiece event that gets underway later this month, India have fielded a second-string side for the ODI series against South Africa under Shikhar Dhawan's captaincy.

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Samson has kept the wickets throughout the series and has also been a regular in the middle order. He will be hoping to continue his fine form and look to make the most of opportunities coming his way in order to cement his spot in the Indian team.

India wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson has said he has been asked by the Indian team management to take up the finisher's role in white-ball cricket going forward.

India wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson has said he has been asked by the Indian team management to take up the finisher's role in white-ball cricket going forward. Samson, who has mostly batted up the order in his career so far, is ready to bat lower down the order and finish games for India when required. While Dinesh Karthik has been India's designated finisher in T20Is, the Men in Blue have looked up to the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja to don the role in ODIs ever since the departure of the legendary MS Dhoni. Samson has been batting at no.5 for India in their ongoing ODI series against South Africa at home and has looked in good touch. He slammed a brilliant knock of 86 runs in the first ODI against the Proteas and followed it up with a gritty 30 in the second ODI. Samson said he has been training to bat in several different positions and the message from the dressing room has been that he should be ready to finish games for India. Also Read: 'Wish I could walk into Dravid's shoes': Ashwin when asked if Kohli will miss both practice T20Is at Perth "Absolutely, I have been practicing different kind of roles and I think last couple of years, I have put in time to understand different types of roles that I need to play in different teams. So, I am enjoying it," Samson told Star Sports ahead of the third and final ODI against South Africa on Tuesday. "I have been given instructions to be ready to do this finishing role from last one year. Physically, I have been doing top-order batting but mentally I have been understanding the game better on how to react to situations better and how people have done it beautifully in the past. Learning from the history, so yes lot of learning has gone into this," he added. With India's T20 World Cup squad already in Australia to prepare for the showpiece event that gets underway later this month, India have fielded a second-string side for the ODI series against South Africa under Shikhar Dhawan's captaincy. Also Read: 1983 World Cup hero Roger Binny likely to replace Sourav Ganguly as BCCI president Samson has kept the wickets throughout the series and has also been a regular in the middle order. He will be hoping to continue his fine form and look to make the most of opportunities coming his way in order to cement his spot in the Indian team.

Sanju Samson to be India's new finisher? Star batter hints at new role from Indian team management

Shikhar Dhawan-led India beat South Africa by seven wickets in the second and penultimate ODI at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi on Sunday evening (October 09). After losing the series opener by nine runs, India have now levelled the series with one game to go at the national capital, i.e. New Delhi on Tuesday evening (October 11).

With a host of regular players in Australia for the T20 World Cup, from October 16, Dhawan &amp; Co. came from behind to restrict SA for 278 for 7 in 50 overs, after Keshav Maharaj-led Proteas were well-placed at 215 for 4 in 38 overs. Post half centuries from Aiden Markram and Reeza Hendricks, Md Siraj's 3 for 38 restricted the visitors who chose to bat first despite dew set to make its presence felt in the second-half.

In reply, India were 48-2 but a solid 161-run third-wicket stand between centurion Shreyas Iyer (113 not out off 111 balls) and Ishan Kisha's 93 took the Men in Blue past the finish line. Iyer stayed till the end, with Sanju Samson unbeaten on 30, to take the home side to an easy win eventually. The right-hander has been in terrific form in ODIs in 2022, with four half-centuries and a ton (his second in the format). With his well-compiled knock helping India, Iyer joined Virat Kohli in a unique list.

Iyer joins Kohli &amp; Co.

Iyer became only the second Indian batter after Kohli to score an ODI ton at Ranchi. The former Indian captain has two centuries, both in ODIs, at the venue (one against Australia in 2019 and the other versus Sri Lanka in late 2014). Overall, Iyer became the fourth batter&nbsp;as the list also includes Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews and Australian opener Usman Khawaja who have scored hundreds at the venue.&nbsp;

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At the post-match presentation, Iyer said, "When I went into bat, felt that the wicket was playing good. The talk between me and Ishan was to play the ball on merit, build a partnership. Tomorrow is going to be a travel day, and then the match. Let's see what is in store for me (regarding his fitness for next game). I'm not someone who changes according to the bowler. I am someone who changes on instinct and believing in myself."

Meanwhile, Dhawan thanked his counterpart Maharaj to have opted to bat first and said, "Worked perfectly well for us, thanks to Keshav that he chose to bat (smiles). Glad that dew came in at the right time. Ishan and Shreyas batted so well, that partnership was so nice to watch. It was coming on nicely, but it stayed low. Plan was to take on the bowlers in the first 10 overs as we knew it could get difficult in the middle overs. When the dew came, you could see that it got easier. Very satisfied with the bowling unit, they are all young and these are good learnings for them. Especially Shahbaz. All the young boys, I'm so proud that they showed so much maturity."

Shikhar Dhawan-led India beat South Africa by seven wickets in the second and penultimate ODI at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi on Sunday evening (October 09).

Shikhar Dhawan-led India beat South Africa by seven wickets in the second and penultimate ODI at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi on Sunday evening (October 09). After losing the series opener by nine runs, India have now levelled the series with one game to go at the national capital, i.e. New Delhi on Tuesday evening (October 11). With a host of regular players in Australia for the T20 World Cup, from October 16, Dhawan & Co. came from behind to restrict SA for 278 for 7 in 50 overs, after Keshav Maharaj-led Proteas were well-placed at 215 for 4 in 38 overs. Post half centuries from Aiden Markram and Reeza Hendricks, Md Siraj's 3 for 38 restricted the visitors who chose to bat first despite dew set to make its presence felt in the second-half. In reply, India were 48-2 but a solid 161-run third-wicket stand between centurion Shreyas Iyer (113 not out off 111 balls) and Ishan Kisha's 93 took the Men in Blue past the finish line. Iyer stayed till the end, with Sanju Samson unbeaten on 30, to take the home side to an easy win eventually. The right-hander has been in terrific form in ODIs in 2022, with four half-centuries and a ton (his second in the format). With his well-compiled knock helping India, Iyer joined Virat Kohli in a unique list. Iyer joins Kohli & Co. Iyer became only the second Indian batter after Kohli to score an ODI ton at Ranchi. The former Indian captain has two centuries, both in ODIs, at the venue (one against Australia in 2019 and the other versus Sri Lanka in late 2014). Overall, Iyer became the fourth batter as the list also includes Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews and Australian opener Usman Khawaja who have scored hundreds at the venue. ALSO READ | Iyer, Kishan slam brilliant knocks as India beat South Africa by 7 wickets in 2nd ODI to level series At the post-match presentation, Iyer said, "When I went into bat, felt that the wicket was playing good. The talk between me and Ishan was to play the ball on merit, build a partnership. Tomorrow is going to be a travel day, and then the match. Let's see what is in store for me (regarding his fitness for next game). I'm not someone who changes according to the bowler. I am someone who changes on instinct and believing in myself." Meanwhile, Dhawan thanked his counterpart Maharaj to have opted to bat first and said, "Worked perfectly well for us, thanks to Keshav that he chose to bat (smiles). Glad that dew came in at the right time. Ishan and Shreyas batted so well, that partnership was so nice to watch. It was coming on nicely, but it stayed low. Plan was to take on the bowlers in the first 10 overs as we knew it could get difficult in the middle overs. When the dew came, you could see that it got easier. Very satisfied with the bowling unit, they are all young and these are good learnings for them. Especially Shahbaz. All the young boys, I'm so proud that they showed so much maturity."

Ind vs SA, 2nd ODI: Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli in unique list after 113 not out in Ranchi

Rohit Sharma-led India's T20 World Cup-bound players left for Australia last week. After finishing their three-match T20I series versus South Africa, which they&nbsp;won 2-1, Rohit &amp; Co. left for the marquee tournament with the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian ODI locking horns with the Proteas in the 50-over series at home.

Losing the first ODI by nine runs, in pursuit of 250 in a 40-over contest, India had to win the second and penultimate encounter to keep the series alive. With many of their regulars in Australia for the T20 WC preparations, the talk was that Dhawan-led India's side is a second-stringed side or a B-team, hence, will find it difficult to level the series.

After India rode on Shreyas Iyer's 113 not out, Ishan Kishan's 93 and Md Siraj's 3 for 38 to win the second ODI by seven wickets, Kishan revealed what motivated India ahead of the Ranchi face-off on Sunday (October 9). Speaking at the post-match press conference, the swashbuckling left-hander said, "I heard people talking that we are the B-side, we are not so much capable of beating South Africa's full strength side. I heard these comments and we're really upset about it, so we wanted to play our A-game today."

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<section>"We lost the first game and we wanted to win this badly so that we can give a fight in the next one. Hopefully, we will win the next game also. And the kind of form Iyer is batting, Sanju bhai is batting, everyone is in their prime form. So all target is on the next game" he opined.</section>

Kishan stitched a match-winning 161-run third-wicket stand with centurion Iyer. Both came together with India reduced to 48-2 in pursuit of 279, after Keshav Maharaj-led SA opted to bat first. "Partnership was good with Iyer bhai because he is also someone who doesn't take much time. He comes and starts playing his drives, cut and pull. Looking at his intent also gave me a lot of clarity and lot of positivity," Kishan stated on the partnership.

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<section>At the post-match presentation, captain Dhawan said, "Worked perfectly well for us, thanks to Keshav that he chose to bat (smiles). Glad that dew came in at the right time. Ishan and Shreyas batted so well, that partnership was so nice to watch. It was coming on nicely, but it stayed low. Plan was to take on the bowlers in the first 10 overs as we knew it could get difficult in the middle overs. When the dew came, you could see that it got easier. Very satisfied with the bowling unit, they are all young and these are good learnings for them. Especially Shahbaz. All the young boys, I'm so proud that they showed so much maturity."</section>

Rohit Sharma-led India's T20 World Cup-bound players left for Australia last week. After finishing their three-match T20I series versus South Africa, which they won 2-1, Rohit & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led India's T20 World Cup-bound players left for Australia last week. After finishing their three-match T20I series versus South Africa, which they won 2-1, Rohit & Co. left for the marquee tournament with the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian ODI locking horns with the Proteas in the 50-over series at home. Losing the first ODI by nine runs, in pursuit of 250 in a 40-over contest, India had to win the second and penultimate encounter to keep the series alive. With many of their regulars in Australia for the T20 WC preparations, the talk was that Dhawan-led India's side is a second-stringed side or a B-team, hence, will find it difficult to level the series. After India rode on Shreyas Iyer's 113 not out, Ishan Kishan's 93 and Md Siraj's 3 for 38 to win the second ODI by seven wickets, Kishan revealed what motivated India ahead of the Ranchi face-off on Sunday (October 9). Speaking at the post-match press conference, the swashbuckling left-hander said, "I heard people talking that we are the B-side, we are not so much capable of beating South Africa's full strength side. I heard these comments and we're really upset about it, so we wanted to play our A-game today." ALSO READ | Matthew Wade blocks Mark Wood from taking a catch in Perth T20I, Buttler explains why he didn't appeal "We lost the first game and we wanted to win this badly so that we can give a fight in the next one. Hopefully, we will win the next game also. And the kind of form Iyer is batting, Sanju bhai is batting, everyone is in their prime form. So all target is on the next game" he opined. Kishan stitched a match-winning 161-run third-wicket stand with centurion Iyer. Both came together with India reduced to 48-2 in pursuit of 279, after Keshav Maharaj-led SA opted to bat first. "Partnership was good with Iyer bhai because he is also someone who doesn't take much time. He comes and starts playing his drives, cut and pull. Looking at his intent also gave me a lot of clarity and lot of positivity," Kishan stated on the partnership. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 2nd ODI: Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli in unique list after 113 not out in Ranchi At the post-match presentation, captain Dhawan said, "Worked perfectly well for us, thanks to Keshav that he chose to bat (smiles). Glad that dew came in at the right time. Ishan and Shreyas batted so well, that partnership was so nice to watch. It was coming on nicely, but it stayed low. Plan was to take on the bowlers in the first 10 overs as we knew it could get difficult in the middle overs. When the dew came, you could see that it got easier. Very satisfied with the bowling unit, they are all young and these are good learnings for them. Especially Shahbaz. All the young boys, I'm so proud that they showed so much maturity."

'Heard we are the B-side' - Ishan Kishan on what inspired Shikhar Dhawan's India ahead of 2nd ODI vs SA

Shreyas Iyer struck a sublime century while Ishan Kishan displayed his brute force against a formidable South African attack to set up a series-levelling seven-wicket win for India in the second ODI here on Sunday. Mohammed Siraj led an inexperienced Indian bowling lineup brilliantly to restrict South Africa to 278/7 after the visitors opted to bat.

Iyer made his second ODI hundred (113 not out off 111) and shared a match-winning 161-run stand with Kishan (93 off84) to ensure a comfortable win in 45.5 overs for a second-string Indian team. The 24-year-old Kishan looked like a transformed batter and showed different layers of his batting by switching to beast mode after a responsible start.

The lefthander smashed seven sixes and four boundaries in his career-best knock from 84 balls, while Iyer played the perfect foil. The designated vice-captain of the series, Iyer, has been in top form in ODIs, having slammed one century and four fifties in his last six innings.

Locked one-all after two matches, both teams will play the series decider in Delhi on Tuesday. At India's optional nets ahead of the game, Ishan had made his intentions clear when he clobbered a loose ball with brute force, ramming into the grill of the MS Dhoni pavillion.

On match day, the stage was just perfect for the diminutive batter to boss at his homeground. India needed 231 from 41.1 overs when a classy-looking Shubman Gill (28; 26b) perished to a gravity-defying low catch by Rabada on his follow-through.

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Kishan came in and was at his vigilant best. He ran hard for singles and overcame a hostile bowling spell from Nortje when he was clocking 145-plus clicks on a slow Ranchi wicket. The lefthander however did not panic as he reached 29 off 46 balls.

South Africa then started operating with spinners with stand-in skipper Maharaj looking to dismiss Kishan for a second successive time.

But Kishan took the attack on the left-arm spinner and smashed him for three sixes including two in four balls. 
The only blip in his innings was when he mistimed one to Rabada but this time he dropped a sitter.

In the next delivery, Kishan took a blow on his elbow that seemingly unsettled him before he fell agonisingly short of a maiden century. Earlier, Aiden Markram (79 off 89 balls) and Reeza Hendricks (74 off 76) looked in control of the proceedings in the middle overs.

But Siraj triggered the collapse and also took a stunning forward running catch to dismiss a dangerous-looking Heinrich Klaasen (30).

He mixed up the slower ones intelligently, bowled with a tight line and length and did not even give the in-form David Miller (35 not out) a chance to put him away. He conceded only three runs in the 50th over to end with figures 10-1-38-3.

From being 169/3, which came courtesy a 129 run-a-ball partnership by Hendricks and Markram, South Africa lost three quick wickets with some clever field placements and bowling rotation by India skipper Shikhar Dhawan.

Even the in-form Miller struggled to get going at the death and Siraj came out on top as they scored just 57 runs from the last 10 overs with the loss of two wickets.

Debutant Shabaz Ahmed jumped in joy after bagging his maiden international wicket as he trapped Janneman Malan in front of the stumps.

It seemed a perfect start for India with the visitors' score reading 40/2 after 10 overs which had just seven boundaries on a dull and dry JSCA wicket.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/md-shami-or-deepak-chahar-former-india-keeper-picks-jasprit-bumrahs-replacement-for-t20-wc-2022-523795">Md. Shami or Deepak Chahar? Former India keeper picks Jasprit Bumrah's replacement for T20 WC 2022</a>

But what followed was a composed and calculative approach by the middle-order duo of Markram and Hendricks who were happy to bide time, play out dot balls and forge a partnership.

From 20th over onwards, they stepped it up, picking odd boundaries every over and in no time they reached their respective fifties -- Hendricks in 58 balls, and Markram in 64 balls.

Hendricks smashed Kuldeep over wide long-on in the 27th over as they started to make their intentions clear. 
But thankfully for India, Hendricks got out to a loose short-pitched delivery from Siraj.

It opened the gates for India and with some smart captaincy by Dhawan they managed to sneak in three wickets for 46 runs including that of a dangerous-looking Klaasen.

Shreyas Iyer struck a sublime century while Ishan Kishan displayed his brute force against a formidable South African attack to set up a series-levelling seven-wicket win for India in the second ODI here on Sunday.

Shreyas Iyer struck a sublime century while Ishan Kishan displayed his brute force against a formidable South African attack to set up a series-levelling seven-wicket win for India in the second ODI here on Sunday. Mohammed Siraj led an inexperienced Indian bowling lineup brilliantly to restrict South Africa to 278/7 after the visitors opted to bat. Iyer made his second ODI hundred (113 not out off 111) and shared a match-winning 161-run stand with Kishan (93 off84) to ensure a comfortable win in 45.5 overs for a second-string Indian team. The 24-year-old Kishan looked like a transformed batter and showed different layers of his batting by switching to beast mode after a responsible start. The lefthander smashed seven sixes and four boundaries in his career-best knock from 84 balls, while Iyer played the perfect foil. The designated vice-captain of the series, Iyer, has been in top form in ODIs, having slammed one century and four fifties in his last six innings. Locked one-all after two matches, both teams will play the series decider in Delhi on Tuesday. At India's optional nets ahead of the game, Ishan had made his intentions clear when he clobbered a loose ball with brute force, ramming into the grill of the MS Dhoni pavillion. On match day, the stage was just perfect for the diminutive batter to boss at his homeground. India needed 231 from 41.1 overs when a classy-looking Shubman Gill (28; 26b) perished to a gravity-defying low catch by Rabada on his follow-through. Also Read: 'Siraj seriously pushing Shami': Sanjay Manjrekar on Jasprit Bumrah's spot in India's T20 World Cup squad Kishan came in and was at his vigilant best. He ran hard for singles and overcame a hostile bowling spell from Nortje when he was clocking 145-plus clicks on a slow Ranchi wicket. The lefthander however did not panic as he reached 29 off 46 balls. South Africa then started operating with spinners with stand-in skipper Maharaj looking to dismiss Kishan for a second successive time. But Kishan took the attack on the left-arm spinner and smashed him for three sixes including two in four balls. The only blip in his innings was when he mistimed one to Rabada but this time he dropped a sitter. In the next delivery, Kishan took a blow on his elbow that seemingly unsettled him before he fell agonisingly short of a maiden century. Earlier, Aiden Markram (79 off 89 balls) and Reeza Hendricks (74 off 76) looked in control of the proceedings in the middle overs. But Siraj triggered the collapse and also took a stunning forward running catch to dismiss a dangerous-looking Heinrich Klaasen (30). He mixed up the slower ones intelligently, bowled with a tight line and length and did not even give the in-form David Miller (35 not out) a chance to put him away. He conceded only three runs in the 50th over to end with figures 10-1-38-3. From being 169/3, which came courtesy a 129 run-a-ball partnership by Hendricks and Markram, South Africa lost three quick wickets with some clever field placements and bowling rotation by India skipper Shikhar Dhawan. Even the in-form Miller struggled to get going at the death and Siraj came out on top as they scored just 57 runs from the last 10 overs with the loss of two wickets. Debutant Shabaz Ahmed jumped in joy after bagging his maiden international wicket as he trapped Janneman Malan in front of the stumps. It seemed a perfect start for India with the visitors' score reading 40/2 after 10 overs which had just seven boundaries on a dull and dry JSCA wicket. Also Read: Md. Shami or Deepak Chahar? Former India keeper picks Jasprit Bumrah's replacement for T20 WC 2022 But what followed was a composed and calculative approach by the middle-order duo of Markram and Hendricks who were happy to bide time, play out dot balls and forge a partnership. From 20th over onwards, they stepped it up, picking odd boundaries every over and in no time they reached their respective fifties -- Hendricks in 58 balls, and Markram in 64 balls. Hendricks smashed Kuldeep over wide long-on in the 27th over as they started to make their intentions clear. But thankfully for India, Hendricks got out to a loose short-pitched delivery from Siraj. It opened the gates for India and with some smart captaincy by Dhawan they managed to sneak in three wickets for 46 runs including that of a dangerous-looking Klaasen.

Iyer, Kishan slam brilliant knocks as India beat South Africa by 7 wickets in 2nd ODI to level series

South Africa all-rounder Keshav Maharaj has hailed Team India's incredible talent pool and refuted the claims that the Proteas are currently playing against a second-string Indian in the ongoing ODI series. India are currently locking horns with South Africa in a three-match ODI series at home with the team being led by Shikhar Dhawan in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

South Africa made a winning start to the series after clinching the first game by 9 runs to go 1-0 up. The Indian team is without all of their T20 World Cup-bound players, including the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul among others. Meanwhile, India are also missing the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah who are out with injuries.

However, the Indian team is still full of quality showcasing the incredible depth of India's talent pool. There are likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan and Mohammed Siraj among others who are part of India's ODI squad against South Africa making them a formidable unit despite missing a host of first-choice players.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-india-chose-to-train-in-perth-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-2022-strength-and-conditioning-coach-explains-523587">Why India chose to train in Perth ahead of T20 World Cup 2022? Strength and conditioning coach explains</a>

Proteas star Maharaj hailed India's incredible talent pool and refused to label Dhawan &amp; Co. as a 'second-string' team. He said India can field 4-5 international teams in one go with the kind of talent they have in their pool.&nbsp;

"I would not call it a second-string Indian side. India have so much talent that they can field four-five proper international sides. Having said that, a lot of the guys have IPL and have international experience. There are world-class performers out there,"&nbsp;said Maharaj in the press conference ahead of the second ODI between the two teams in Ranchi on Sunday.

"It's always nice to play well against India. Obviously, you want to prepare yourself. They have a world-class batting lineup," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shami-to-replace-jasprit-bumrah-in-indias-t20-wc-squad-to-travel-to-australia-next-week-report-523575">Mohammed Shami to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 WC squad, to travel to Australia next week - Report</a>

While India are without many first-choice stars, South Africa have a full-strength squad at their disposal and will be backing themselves to continue their winning run in the second ODI on Sunday. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma-led India's 15-man squad is currently in Australia to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.

South Africa all-rounder Keshav Maharaj has hailed Team India's incredible talent pool and refuted the claims that the Proteas are currently playing against a second-string Indian in the ongoing ODI series.

South Africa all-rounder Keshav Maharaj has hailed Team India's incredible talent pool and refuted the claims that the Proteas are currently playing against a second-string Indian in the ongoing ODI series. India are currently locking horns with South Africa in a three-match ODI series at home with the team being led by Shikhar Dhawan in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. South Africa made a winning start to the series after clinching the first game by 9 runs to go 1-0 up. The Indian team is without all of their T20 World Cup-bound players, including the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul among others. Meanwhile, India are also missing the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah who are out with injuries. However, the Indian team is still full of quality showcasing the incredible depth of India's talent pool. There are likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan and Mohammed Siraj among others who are part of India's ODI squad against South Africa making them a formidable unit despite missing a host of first-choice players. Also Read: Why India chose to train in Perth ahead of T20 World Cup 2022? Strength and conditioning coach explains Proteas star Maharaj hailed India's incredible talent pool and refused to label Dhawan & Co. as a 'second-string' team. He said India can field 4-5 international teams in one go with the kind of talent they have in their pool. "I would not call it a second-string Indian side. India have so much talent that they can field four-five proper international sides. Having said that, a lot of the guys have IPL and have international experience. There are world-class performers out there," said Maharaj in the press conference ahead of the second ODI between the two teams in Ranchi on Sunday. "It's always nice to play well against India. Obviously, you want to prepare yourself. They have a world-class batting lineup," he added. Also Read: Mohammed Shami to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 WC squad, to travel to Australia next week - Report While India are without many first-choice stars, South Africa have a full-strength squad at their disposal and will be backing themselves to continue their winning run in the second ODI on Sunday. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma-led India's 15-man squad is currently in Australia to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.

They can field 4-5 international teams: South Africa's Keshav Maharaj hails India's extraordinary talent pool

Shikhar Dhawan-led India locked horns with South Africa in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday (October 06) in Lucknow. After asking the visitors to bat first and reducing them to 110/4, Indian bowlers were made to toil hard as unbeaten half-centuries from Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller took Proteas to a respectable 240-4 in a rain-curtailed 40-over contest.

In reply, India were on the back foot and reeling at 51-4 before Shreyas Iyer's 37-ball 50 and Sanju Samson's 86 not out, off 63 deliveries, instilled a fightback from the Men in Blue camp. While Iyer left with India being reduced to 118 for 5, Samson stayed till the end to keep India's hopes alive. He stitched a valuable 93-run sixth-wicket stand with Shardul Thakur (33) before losing partners at regular intervals. The right-hander continued to take his chances, with 30 needed off the last six balls, but was too much to ask from him alone.

After the match and his impressive knock, Samson told the reporters, "Thoda time wicket pe guzaarna bhot acha pasand karta hu aur Indian jersey pehen k to thoda aur bhi special he ho jaata hai. Magar khelte hain toh hum match jitaane ke liye, toh thoda sa reh gaya. Do shots reh gaya. Toh agli baar achi tareh karne dekhunga. Par apne contribution se sehmat hu&nbsp;(I like to spend some time in the middle. Playing in the Indian jersey, it becomes even more special. We always want to win, however, we just fell short. I fell short by two shots. I'm still satisfied with my contribution)."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-potential-of-yuvraj-singh-to-hit-six-sixes-dale-steyn-lauds-sanju-samson-after-lucknow-odi-523252">'He has potential of Yuvraj Singh to hit six sixes' - Dale Steyn lauds Sanju Samson after Lucknow ODI</a>

"Unke bowlers achha daal rahe the par Shamsi expensive jaa rahe the, toh hum unko target kar sakte the. Unka ek over end me reh gaya tha, toh mujhe pata tha agar 24 run bhi honge, toh 4 chhakke main laga sakta tha. Main confident tha. Vo hi plan tha. Batsmen ne achhi tarah respond kiya, mujhe aisa laga.&nbsp;(They were bowling good but Shami was a bit expensive, so we wanted to go after him. I knew his one over remained and I thought, ‘Even if we have 24 runs remaining in the final over, I can hit 4 sixes’. I was confident. I believe the batters&nbsp;responded well)," Samson added.

At the post-match presentation, Dhawan lauded his troops and said, "Quite proud of the way the boys played the game, we didn't get a good start, the way Shreyas, Samson and Shardul batted was excellent. We gave away too many runs on a wicket that swung and spun, the fielding wasn't great, but this was a good learning experience for us."

Shikhar Dhawan-led India locked horns with South Africa in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday (October 06) in Lucknow. After asking the visitors to bat first and reducing them to 110/4, Indian bowlers were made to toil hard as unbeaten half-centuries from Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller took Proteas to a respectable 240-4 in a rain-curtailed 40-over contest.

Shikhar Dhawan-led India locked horns with South Africa in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday (October 06) in Lucknow. After asking the visitors to bat first and reducing them to 110/4, Indian bowlers were made to toil hard as unbeaten half-centuries from Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller took Proteas to a respectable 240-4 in a rain-curtailed 40-over contest. In reply, India were on the back foot and reeling at 51-4 before Shreyas Iyer's 37-ball 50 and Sanju Samson's 86 not out, off 63 deliveries, instilled a fightback from the Men in Blue camp. While Iyer left with India being reduced to 118 for 5, Samson stayed till the end to keep India's hopes alive. He stitched a valuable 93-run sixth-wicket stand with Shardul Thakur (33) before losing partners at regular intervals. The right-hander continued to take his chances, with 30 needed off the last six balls, but was too much to ask from him alone. After the match and his impressive knock, Samson told the reporters, "Thoda time wicket pe guzaarna bhot acha pasand karta hu aur Indian jersey pehen k to thoda aur bhi special he ho jaata hai. Magar khelte hain toh hum match jitaane ke liye, toh thoda sa reh gaya. Do shots reh gaya. Toh agli baar achi tareh karne dekhunga. Par apne contribution se sehmat hu (I like to spend some time in the middle. Playing in the Indian jersey, it becomes even more special. We always want to win, however, we just fell short. I fell short by two shots. I'm still satisfied with my contribution)." ALSO READ | 'He has potential of Yuvraj Singh to hit six sixes' - Dale Steyn lauds Sanju Samson after Lucknow ODI "Unke bowlers achha daal rahe the par Shamsi expensive jaa rahe the, toh hum unko target kar sakte the. Unka ek over end me reh gaya tha, toh mujhe pata tha agar 24 run bhi honge, toh 4 chhakke main laga sakta tha. Main confident tha. Vo hi plan tha. Batsmen ne achhi tarah respond kiya, mujhe aisa laga. (They were bowling good but Shami was a bit expensive, so we wanted to go after him. I knew his one over remained and I thought, ‘Even if we have 24 runs remaining in the final over, I can hit 4 sixes’. I was confident. I believe the batters responded well)," Samson added. At the post-match presentation, Dhawan lauded his troops and said, "Quite proud of the way the boys played the game, we didn't get a good start, the way Shreyas, Samson and Shardul batted was excellent. We gave away too many runs on a wicket that swung and spun, the fielding wasn't great, but this was a good learning experience for us."

WATCH: 'Fell short by two shots' - Sanju Samson reacts after his 86* in vain in 1st ODI vs South Africa

Suryakumar Yadav continues to make heads turn with his sensational run in T20Is for Team India. Finishing the just-concluded India-SA T20Is, at home, with 119 runs -- including two half-centuries -- Surya moved closer to the top-spot, still occupied by Pakistan opener Mohammad Rizwan.

Following the India-SA series, which Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. won 2-1, Surya's performance have brought him to within 16 rating points of Rizwan in the latest T20I batter rankings, released by the ICC revealed on October 5 (Wednesday). Thus, the two top batters will fight it out for the numero uno position in the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajay-jadeja-gives-waqar-younis-example-explains-how-india-can-still-win-t20-wc-sans-jasprit-bumrah-522743">Ajay Jadeja gives Waqar Younis' example, explains how India can still win T20 WC sans Jasprit Bumrah</a>

Rizwan, on the other hand, was last seen in action during the Pakistan-England T20Is, held in the former's backyard. In a series won by Moeen Ali-led England, the keeper-batter returned with 316 runs -- top run scorer of the series -- with four half-centuries from six outings (he was rested for the penultimate encounter in Lahore).

India opener and vice-captain KL Rahul also moved up the ladder, by seven spots, to 14th in the updated list on the back of his 108 runs versus SA.&nbsp;&nbsp;Among others,&nbsp;South Africa trio Quinton de Kock (up eight spots to 12th), Rilee Rossouw (20th position) and David Miller (moving up by 10 spots to 29th) were some other batters to have gone up in the list.

England's Dawid Malan moved&nbsp;up a rank to take the fifth spot whereas Ben Duckett now holds the 24th position, following the Pakistan series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-suryakumar-yadavs-form-is-a-bit-of-concern-rohit-sharmas-hilarious-remark-after-sa-t20is-522656">WATCH: 'Suryakumar Yadav's form is a bit of concern' - Rohit Sharma's hilarious remark after SA T20Is</a>

Josh Hazlewood continues to lead among the bowlers

After Hazlewood, Rashid Khan, Wanindu Hasaranga, Adam Zampa and Tabriaz Shamsi make the top five whereas Kagiso Rabada broke into the top ten, taking the 10th position after an impressive series versus the Men in Bliue, where he accounted for four scalps.

Meanwhile, England seamer Reece Topley climbed nine spots to 14th overall whereas&nbsp;veteran Indian Ravichandran Ashwin moved&nbsp;28 slots to take the 20th place.

Among the top-ten all-rounders, there were hardly many changes with&nbsp;Afghanistan captain&nbsp;Mohammad Nabi retaining the top spot, despite his poor form, whereas India's Hardik&nbsp;Pandya fell a spot below to occupy the fifth position after missing the SA series.

Suryakumar Yadav continues to make heads turn with his sensational run in T20Is for Team India. Finishing the just-concluded India-SA T20Is, at home, with 119 runs -- including two half-centuries -- Surya moved closer to the top-spot, still occupied by Pakistan opener Mohammad Rizwan.

Suryakumar Yadav continues to make heads turn with his sensational run in T20Is for Team India. Finishing the just-concluded India-SA T20Is, at home, with 119 runs -- including two half-centuries -- Surya moved closer to the top-spot, still occupied by Pakistan opener Mohammad Rizwan. Following the India-SA series, which Rohit Sharma & Co. won 2-1, Surya's performance have brought him to within 16 rating points of Rizwan in the latest T20I batter rankings, released by the ICC revealed on October 5 (Wednesday). Thus, the two top batters will fight it out for the numero uno position in the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. ALSO READ | Ajay Jadeja gives Waqar Younis' example, explains how India can still win T20 WC sans Jasprit Bumrah Rizwan, on the other hand, was last seen in action during the Pakistan-England T20Is, held in the former's backyard. In a series won by Moeen Ali-led England, the keeper-batter returned with 316 runs -- top run scorer of the series -- with four half-centuries from six outings (he was rested for the penultimate encounter in Lahore). India opener and vice-captain KL Rahul also moved up the ladder, by seven spots, to 14th in the updated list on the back of his 108 runs versus SA. Among others, South Africa trio Quinton de Kock (up eight spots to 12th), Rilee Rossouw (20th position) and David Miller (moving up by 10 spots to 29th) were some other batters to have gone up in the list. England's Dawid Malan moved up a rank to take the fifth spot whereas Ben Duckett now holds the 24th position, following the Pakistan series. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'Suryakumar Yadav's form is a bit of concern' - Rohit Sharma's hilarious remark after SA T20Is Josh Hazlewood continues to lead among the bowlers After Hazlewood, Rashid Khan, Wanindu Hasaranga, Adam Zampa and Tabriaz Shamsi make the top five whereas Kagiso Rabada broke into the top ten, taking the 10th position after an impressive series versus the Men in Bliue, where he accounted for four scalps. Meanwhile, England seamer Reece Topley climbed nine spots to 14th overall whereas veteran Indian Ravichandran Ashwin moved 28 slots to take the 20th place. Among the top-ten all-rounders, there were hardly many changes with Afghanistan captain Mohammad Nabi retaining the top spot, despite his poor form, whereas India's Hardik Pandya fell a spot below to occupy the fifth position after missing the SA series.

ICC T20I rankings: Suryakumar narrows gap with top-ranked Md Rizwan after India-SA series

India faced South Africa in the third and inconsequential T20I, at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, on Tuesday evening (October 04). After taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with a 16-run win in the second and penultimate encounter, Rohit Sharma-led India asked South Africa to bat first.

Temba Bavuma's SA rode on Rilee Rossouw's 100 not out to post 227-3. In reply, India only managed 178 in 18.3 overs to lose by 49 runs and win the series 2-1. Post the encounter, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed the media and was asked by a reporter&nbsp;why Axar Patel -- who was the Player-of-the-Series in the Australia home T20Is -- bowled only a single over in the Indore face-off. To this, Dravid maintained his calm but gave a blunt reply.

"Match-ups are important, there are important to us. Whether they are more important or not, it's for you guys to dig deep and look at what stats tell you about some match-ups, about numbers of left-hand batsmen against left-arm spin. Maybe, you find them answers in that.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-suryakumar-yadavs-form-is-a-bit-of-concern-rohit-sharmas-hilarious-remark-after-sa-t20is-522656">WATCH: 'Suryakumar Yadav's form is a bit of concern' - Rohit Sharma's hilarious remark after SA T20Is</a>

"A lot of teams use match-ups, not only us. Like us, I am sure other teams delve into stats and look into numbers. Think if you delved into some of those numbers, you might get answers. I would really request you to look into those numbers, deeply. As deeply as we do," Dravid said.

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India refrained from bowling Axar in the middle and took him out of the attack during the Rossouw-Quinton De Kock 90-run second-wicket stand. With two left-handers batting in the middle, on a ground&nbsp;whose boundaries range between 55-65 metres, it would've been suicidal for Axar to be bowling at that moment. On a small ground, with in-form David Miller, still to come out to bat, Axar didn't return to the bowling attack and ended with match figures of 1-0-13-0.

India faced South Africa in the third and inconsequential T20I, at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, on Tuesday evening (October 04). After taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with a 16-run win in the second and penultimate encounter, Rohit Sharma-led India asked South Africa to bat first.

India faced South Africa in the third and inconsequential T20I, at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, on Tuesday evening (October 04). After taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with a 16-run win in the second and penultimate encounter, Rohit Sharma-led India asked South Africa to bat first. Temba Bavuma's SA rode on Rilee Rossouw's 100 not out to post 227-3. In reply, India only managed 178 in 18.3 overs to lose by 49 runs and win the series 2-1. Post the encounter, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed the media and was asked by a reporter why Axar Patel -- who was the Player-of-the-Series in the Australia home T20Is -- bowled only a single over in the Indore face-off. To this, Dravid maintained his calm but gave a blunt reply. "Match-ups are important, there are important to us. Whether they are more important or not, it's for you guys to dig deep and look at what stats tell you about some match-ups, about numbers of left-hand batsmen against left-arm spin. Maybe, you find them answers in that. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'Suryakumar Yadav's form is a bit of concern' - Rohit Sharma's hilarious remark after SA T20Is "A lot of teams use match-ups, not only us. Like us, I am sure other teams delve into stats and look into numbers. Think if you delved into some of those numbers, you might get answers. I would really request you to look into those numbers, deeply. As deeply as we do," Dravid said. pic.twitter.com/qVE2udvvq6 — Yoloapp (@Yoloapp2) October 5, 2022 × India refrained from bowling Axar in the middle and took him out of the attack during the Rossouw-Quinton De Kock 90-run second-wicket stand. With two left-handers batting in the middle, on a ground whose boundaries range between 55-65 metres, it would've been suicidal for Axar to be bowling at that moment. On a small ground, with in-form David Miller, still to come out to bat, Axar didn't return to the bowling attack and ended with match figures of 1-0-13-0.

Why did Axar Patel bowl one over in Indore T20I? Dravid gives blunt reply to journo's query - WATCH

After winning their first-ever home T20Is versus South Africa, on Sunday (October 02), Rohit Sharma-led India faced the Proteas in the third and final encounter on Tuesday evening (October 04) at the Holkar Stadium, Indore.

In a bid to inflict a series whitewash over Temba Bavuma &amp; Co., Rohit-led India opted to bowl first after resting KL Rahul and Virat Kohli whereas Arshdeep Singh missed out due to back issues. Riding on Rilee Rossouw's 48-ball 100*, Quinton de Kock's 68 and David Miller's 5-ball unbeaten 19, SA posted a mammoth 227/3. In reply, India were 45 for 3 and only managed 178 all-out in 18.3 overs, to lose by 49 runs.

With this being India's last match before the T20 World Cup, where they begin their campaign versus Pakistan on October 23 at the MCG, Melbourne, cricketer-turned-commentator Murali Karthik interacted with skipper Rohit. Hitman discussed about the Australia and South Africa home T20Is (both of which India won 2-1) and made a hilarious remark. "Speaking about the concerns, to start with Surya's form, there's a bit of concern, and then you know, we have to look at that (starts laughing)," Rohit said while talking to presenter Karthik during the post-match presentation. The ex-spinner then said, "I thought it would be the least of your concerns!"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-attains-unwanted-record-becomes-first-indian-to-score-10-ducks-in-t20is-during-sa-face-off-522448">Rohit Sharma attains unwanted record, becomes first Indian to score 10 ducks in T20Is during SA face-off</a>

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Rohit then turned serious and stated, "No, honestly speaking, we have to look at our bowling. What more options could we find in the powerplay, in the middle-overs, and in the death as well."

"The last two series were very challenging. We were playing against the top-2 sides. We had to come up against tough challenges. We will go back and see what better we can do. It is going to be challenging, but we need to find an answer to those. I would still say, we are working towards that. Guys need clarity on what we want to achieve, and it is my job to convey that. It's a work in progress, and we want to continue to keep doing that," the 35-year-old added.

India will now travel to Perth and play some practice as well as warm-up games in the run-up to the T20 WC, which kicks off on October 16.

After winning their first-ever home T20Is versus South Africa, on Sunday (October 02), Rohit Sharma-led India faced the Proteas in the third and final encounter on Tuesday evening (October 04) at the Holkar Stadium, Indore.

After winning their first-ever home T20Is versus South Africa, on Sunday (October 02), Rohit Sharma-led India faced the Proteas in the third and final encounter on Tuesday evening (October 04) at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. In a bid to inflict a series whitewash over Temba Bavuma & Co., Rohit-led India opted to bowl first after resting KL Rahul and Virat Kohli whereas Arshdeep Singh missed out due to back issues. Riding on Rilee Rossouw's 48-ball 100*, Quinton de Kock's 68 and David Miller's 5-ball unbeaten 19, SA posted a mammoth 227/3. In reply, India were 45 for 3 and only managed 178 all-out in 18.3 overs, to lose by 49 runs. With this being India's last match before the T20 World Cup, where they begin their campaign versus Pakistan on October 23 at the MCG, Melbourne, cricketer-turned-commentator Murali Karthik interacted with skipper Rohit. Hitman discussed about the Australia and South Africa home T20Is (both of which India won 2-1) and made a hilarious remark. "Speaking about the concerns, to start with Surya's form, there's a bit of concern, and then you know, we have to look at that (starts laughing)," Rohit said while talking to presenter Karthik during the post-match presentation. The ex-spinner then said, "I thought it would be the least of your concerns!" ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma attains unwanted record, becomes first Indian to score 10 ducks in T20Is during SA face-off pic.twitter.com/MnyjRobYKr — cricket fan (@cricketfanvideo) October 4, 2022 × Rohit then turned serious and stated, "No, honestly speaking, we have to look at our bowling. What more options could we find in the powerplay, in the middle-overs, and in the death as well." "The last two series were very challenging. We were playing against the top-2 sides. We had to come up against tough challenges. We will go back and see what better we can do. It is going to be challenging, but we need to find an answer to those. I would still say, we are working towards that. Guys need clarity on what we want to achieve, and it is my job to convey that. It's a work in progress, and we want to continue to keep doing that," the 35-year-old added. India will now travel to Perth and play some practice as well as warm-up games in the run-up to the T20 WC, which kicks off on October 16.

WATCH: 'Suryakumar Yadav's form is a bit of concern' - Rohit Sharma's hilarious remark after SA T20Is

South Africa produced a dominating performance to thrash India by 49 runs in the third and final T20I of the three-match series at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, here on Tuesday. With the win in the first two T20Is, India won the two-match series 2-1. A scintillating maiden T20I hundred century from Rilee Rossouw (100 not out off 48) and a fine fifty by Quinton de Kock (68 off 43) powered South Africa to 227/3 in 20 overs, after being invited to bat first. 
 
Apart from Rossouw and De Kock, Tristan Stubbs (23 off 18) and David Miller (19 not out off 5) also played valuable knocks for South Africa, who were also helped by India`s sloppy fielding. Umesh Yadav (1/34) and Deepak Chahar (1/48) were the wicket-takers for India. Chasing a big total, India scored at brisk rate for majority parts of their innings but kept losing wickets at regular intervals. The likes of Dinesh Karthik (46 off 21), Rishabh Pant (27 off 14) got starts but couldn`t convert them into big innings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-attains-unwanted-record-becomes-first-indian-to-score-10-ducks-in-t20is-during-sa-face-off-522448">Rohit Sharma attains unwanted record, becomes first Indian to score 10 ducks in T20Is during SA face-off</a>

Lower down the order, Harshal Patel (17 off 12), Deepak Chahar (31 off 17), Umesh Yadav (20 not out off 17) also made contributions, but they were not enough. Eventually, India were bowled out for 178 in 18.3 overs, losing by a huge margin of 49 runs. Dwaine Pretorius 3/26, Keshav Maharaj 2/34) were the most successful bowlers for Proteas. 
 
Brief scores: South Africa 227-3 in 20 Overs (Rilee Rossouw 100 not out, Quinton de Kock 68; Umesh Yadav 1/34) beat India 178-10 in 18.3 Overs (Dinesh Karthik 46, Deepak Chahar 31; Dwaine Pretorius 3/26, Keshav Maharaj 2/34) by 49 runs

South Africa produced a dominating performance to thrash India by 49 runs in the third and final T20I of the three-match series at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, here on Tuesday.

South Africa produced a dominating performance to thrash India by 49 runs in the third and final T20I of the three-match series at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, here on Tuesday. With the win in the first two T20Is, India won the two-match series 2-1. A scintillating maiden T20I hundred century from Rilee Rossouw (100 not out off 48) and a fine fifty by Quinton de Kock (68 off 43) powered South Africa to 227/3 in 20 overs, after being invited to bat first. Apart from Rossouw and De Kock, Tristan Stubbs (23 off 18) and David Miller (19 not out off 5) also played valuable knocks for South Africa, who were also helped by India`s sloppy fielding. Umesh Yadav (1/34) and Deepak Chahar (1/48) were the wicket-takers for India. Chasing a big total, India scored at brisk rate for majority parts of their innings but kept losing wickets at regular intervals. The likes of Dinesh Karthik (46 off 21), Rishabh Pant (27 off 14) got starts but couldn`t convert them into big innings. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma attains unwanted record, becomes first Indian to score 10 ducks in T20Is during SA face-off Lower down the order, Harshal Patel (17 off 12), Deepak Chahar (31 off 17), Umesh Yadav (20 not out off 17) also made contributions, but they were not enough. Eventually, India were bowled out for 178 in 18.3 overs, losing by a huge margin of 49 runs. Dwaine Pretorius 3/26, Keshav Maharaj 2/34) were the most successful bowlers for Proteas. Brief scores: South Africa 227-3 in 20 Overs (Rilee Rossouw 100 not out, Quinton de Kock 68; Umesh Yadav 1/34) beat India 178-10 in 18.3 Overs (Dinesh Karthik 46, Deepak Chahar 31; Dwaine Pretorius 3/26, Keshav Maharaj 2/34) by 49 runs

3rd T20I: Rilee Rossouw's maiden ton propels South Africa to 49-run win over India, hosts win 2-1

Jhulan Goswami played her last international game during India's three-match ODI series versus hosts England, at Lord's, on September 24. During the low-scoring thriller, India women rode on half-centuries from Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma but only managed a paltry 169 in 45.4 overs. In reply, England was on the back foot and got reduced to 118 for 9 before the last-wicket stand between Charlie Dean and&nbsp;Freya Davies kept the home side in the hunt.&nbsp;

The duo stretched the run-chase as England were 153 for 9 before Deepti Sharma ran Charlie out, who kept leaving the non-striker's end before the ball was released on several occasions during her 47-run knock. Thus, she paid the price as Deepti dismissed her for backing up too early and India won by 16 runs. Since then, the controversial run-out has divided the cricketing fraternity, with many supporting the form of dismissal but some also slamming it. It is to be noted that the dismissal is within the laws of the game but often irks many in world cricket.&nbsp;

In the third and final T20I between India and South Africa, at the iconic Holkar Stadium in Indore on Tuesday evening (October 04), pacer Deepak Chahar made heads turn by warning&nbsp;Tristan Stubbs against leaving the crease. The incident took place during the 16th over of the Proteas' innings. Chahar warned Stubbs but didn't dismiss him. He&nbsp;had a cheeky grin whereas Stubbs, too, had a smile on his face. Meanwhile, captain Rohit Sharma watched the proceedings from his fielding position and passed a wry smile. Here's the video:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Not Mankading! 
 
The ever smiling and dashing Deepak Chahar maintains the rule, law, spirit, fairness, glory and beauty of cricket! 
 
Respect ✊ 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICC2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICC2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketTwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketTwitter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/respect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#respect</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chennaisuperkings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chennaisuperkings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mankad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mankad</a> <a href="https://t.co/8pT4SXleEY">pic.twitter.com/8pT4SXleEY</a>
— Narasimha R N (@NarasimhaRN5) <a href="https://twitter.com/NarasimhaRN5/status/1577312086220234753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-other-player-in-team-india-sunil-gavaskar-on-jasprit-bumrah-missing-t20-world-cup-522416">'There's no other player in Team India...' - Sunil Gavaskar on Jasprit Bumrah missing T20 World Cup</a>

Talking about the final T20I, Rohit won the toss as India opted to bowl first after clinching the three-match series with back-to-back wins in the opening two encounters. Riding on Rilee Rossouw's 48-ball 100 not out, Quinton de Kock's 68 and David Miller's 5-ball 19*, SA posted a mammoth 227 for 3 in 20 overs. Chahar went for 24 runs in the last over of the first half, ending with match figures of 4-0-48-1.

In reply, India lost Rohit for duck and have their back against the wall in a bid to inflict a series whitewash over the visitors.&nbsp;

Jhulan Goswami played her last international game during India's three-match ODI series versus hosts England, at Lord's, on September 24. During the low-scoring thriller, India women rode on half-centuries from Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma but only managed a paltry 169 in 45.

Jhulan Goswami played her last international game during India's three-match ODI series versus hosts England, at Lord's, on September 24. During the low-scoring thriller, India women rode on half-centuries from Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma but only managed a paltry 169 in 45.4 overs. In reply, England was on the back foot and got reduced to 118 for 9 before the last-wicket stand between Charlie Dean and Freya Davies kept the home side in the hunt. The duo stretched the run-chase as England were 153 for 9 before Deepti Sharma ran Charlie out, who kept leaving the non-striker's end before the ball was released on several occasions during her 47-run knock. Thus, she paid the price as Deepti dismissed her for backing up too early and India won by 16 runs. Since then, the controversial run-out has divided the cricketing fraternity, with many supporting the form of dismissal but some also slamming it. It is to be noted that the dismissal is within the laws of the game but often irks many in world cricket. In the third and final T20I between India and South Africa, at the iconic Holkar Stadium in Indore on Tuesday evening (October 04), pacer Deepak Chahar made heads turn by warning Tristan Stubbs against leaving the crease. The incident took place during the 16th over of the Proteas' innings. Chahar warned Stubbs but didn't dismiss him. He had a cheeky grin whereas Stubbs, too, had a smile on his face. Meanwhile, captain Rohit Sharma watched the proceedings from his fielding position and passed a wry smile. Here's the video: Not Mankading! The ever smiling and dashing Deepak Chahar maintains the rule, law, spirit, fairness, glory and beauty of cricket! Respect ✊ #INDvSA #ICC2022 #BCCI #CricketTwitter #respect #chennaisuperkings #mankad pic.twitter.com/8pT4SXleEY — Narasimha R N (@NarasimhaRN5) October 4, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'There's no other player in Team India...' - Sunil Gavaskar on Jasprit Bumrah missing T20 World Cup Talking about the final T20I, Rohit won the toss as India opted to bowl first after clinching the three-match series with back-to-back wins in the opening two encounters. Riding on Rilee Rossouw's 48-ball 100 not out, Quinton de Kock's 68 and David Miller's 5-ball 19*, SA posted a mammoth 227 for 3 in 20 overs. Chahar went for 24 runs in the last over of the first half, ending with match figures of 4-0-48-1. In reply, India lost Rohit for duck and have their back against the wall in a bid to inflict a series whitewash over the visitors.

Watch: Deepak Chahar warns Tristan Stubbs against leaving the crease in India-SA 3rd T20I in Indore

On Monday evening (October 03), BCCI confirmed that Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah is officially ruled out of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Bumrah will be out of action for sometime due to a back stress fracture. On Tuesday evening (October 03), India were dealt with another blow as speedster Arshdeep Singh also skipped the third and final T20I versus South Africa, at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, due to back issues.&nbsp;

After winning the toss in the third and inconsequential tie, with India being 2-0 ahead in the series, Rohit said at the coin toss, "We're going to field first. It's a very high scoring ground, I feel the pitch won't change a lot so nice to know what target is in front of us. Three changes for us, Kohli and KL are out, and Arshdeep misses out for some issues with his back. It is precautionary, nothing serious. We've got Shreyas Iyer, Umesh Yadav and Siraj in. We want to keep challenging ourselves, keep improving and keep batting the same way."

Teams:

INDIA (PLAYING XI)&nbsp;- Rohit Sharma (C), Rishabh Pant (WK), Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer (in for Virat Kohli), Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Umesh Yadav (in for KL Rahul), Mohammed Siraj (in for Arshdeep Singh).

SOUTH AFRICA (PLAYING XI)&nbsp;- Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Rilee Rossouw, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius (in for Anrich Nortje), Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-chances-of-winning-t20-wc-depend-on-former-stumper-names-key-player-for-rohit-co-522393">'India's chances of winning T20 WC depend on....' - Former stumper names key player for Rohit &amp; Co.</a>

Senior batters KL Rahul and Virat Kohli are also out of action as the team management have decided to rest the duo ahead of the all-important T20 WC Down Under. After the SA T20Is, India will leave for Australia as soon as possible and play two warm-up encounters -- versus Australia and New Zealand respectively -- before opening their campaign in the main draw of the tournament on October 23. India will play arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic MCG, Melbourne and aim to kick off their campaign with a win over the Asian giants. India's group comprises Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and two more teams who will join from the qualifiers.&nbsp;

On Monday evening (October 03), BCCI confirmed that Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah is officially ruled out of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November.

On Monday evening (October 03), BCCI confirmed that Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah is officially ruled out of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Bumrah will be out of action for sometime due to a back stress fracture. On Tuesday evening (October 03), India were dealt with another blow as speedster Arshdeep Singh also skipped the third and final T20I versus South Africa, at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, due to back issues. After winning the toss in the third and inconsequential tie, with India being 2-0 ahead in the series, Rohit said at the coin toss, "We're going to field first. It's a very high scoring ground, I feel the pitch won't change a lot so nice to know what target is in front of us. Three changes for us, Kohli and KL are out, and Arshdeep misses out for some issues with his back. It is precautionary, nothing serious. We've got Shreyas Iyer, Umesh Yadav and Siraj in. We want to keep challenging ourselves, keep improving and keep batting the same way." Teams: INDIA (PLAYING XI) - Rohit Sharma (C), Rishabh Pant (WK), Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer (in for Virat Kohli), Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Umesh Yadav (in for KL Rahul), Mohammed Siraj (in for Arshdeep Singh). SOUTH AFRICA (PLAYING XI) - Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Rilee Rossouw, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius (in for Anrich Nortje), Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi. ALSO READ | 'India's chances of winning T20 WC depend on....' - Former stumper names key player for Rohit & Co. Senior batters KL Rahul and Virat Kohli are also out of action as the team management have decided to rest the duo ahead of the all-important T20 WC Down Under. After the SA T20Is, India will leave for Australia as soon as possible and play two warm-up encounters -- versus Australia and New Zealand respectively -- before opening their campaign in the main draw of the tournament on October 23. India will play arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic MCG, Melbourne and aim to kick off their campaign with a win over the Asian giants. India's group comprises Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and two more teams who will join from the qualifiers.

Another injury scare after Jasprit Bumrah? Arshdeep Singh ruled out of India's 3rd T20I vs South Africa

Ahead of the India-South Africa third and final T20I, at the iconic Holkar Stadium in Indore on Tuesday evening (October 04), a huge controversy broke out. The MP Cricket Association claimed that a team of IMC officials -- under Additional Commissioner Lata Agarwal -- raided their office in a bid to demand municipal taxes. The MPCA fees that the action was taken following&nbsp;their refusal&nbsp;to give away 'more' free passes for officials. On the other hand, the IMC has rubbished all such charges.

On Monday (October 03), a team of IMC officials arrived at the MPCA officials and accused the body of not paying the&nbsp;property tax for the stadium. To this, MPCA office bearers protested and pointed out that the last date is months away, i.e. March 31. While the officials confirmed that the payment will be made by then, they paid INR 3.2 million (INR 32 lakhs)&nbsp;to settle the matter ahead of the series finale between Team India and South Africa.

In addition, the IMC team demanded entertainment tax for previous matches. It is to be noted that&nbsp;the tax liability of those encounters is not the&nbsp;MPCA's responsibility but on the organisers. The entertainment tax for Tuesday's T20I can only be paid after the match since the final ticket sale won't be known before that.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wait-what-west-indies-shimron-hetmyer-dropped-from-t20-wc-squad-for-missing-flight-to-australia-522335">Wait, what? West Indies' Shimron Hetmyer dropped from T20 WC squad for missing flight to Australia</a>

"I'm aghast at the timing of the raid. I am told all this was done to get passes for a junior IAS officer posted in the Indore Municipal Corporation. We decided to settle their tax demand ahead of the due date because we did not want anything to come in the way of organizing the match. The reputation of the state and country is at stake whenever there is an international match," said MPCA President Abhilash Khandekar.

"The additional commissioner Lata Agarwal kept repeating that the IMC Commissioner had sent her," said Khandekar.&nbsp;"How many passes can we keep doling out? This freebie culture has to end," added the President.

Talking about the India-SA T20Is, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead after a 16-run win in the second and penultimate tie in Guwahati on Sunday (October 02). India will like to continue their winning run and inflict a whitewash over Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. in the final encounter, which will be the national side's last appearance on the 22-yard cricket strip&nbsp;before heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, from October 16.

Ahead of the India-South Africa third and final T20I, at the iconic Holkar Stadium in Indore on Tuesday evening (October 04), a huge controversy broke out. The MP Cricket Association claimed that a team of IMC officials -- under Additional Commissioner Lata Agarwal -- raided their office in a bid to demand municipal taxes.

Ahead of the India-South Africa third and final T20I, at the iconic Holkar Stadium in Indore on Tuesday evening (October 04), a huge controversy broke out. The MP Cricket Association claimed that a team of IMC officials -- under Additional Commissioner Lata Agarwal -- raided their office in a bid to demand municipal taxes. The MPCA fees that the action was taken following their refusal to give away 'more' free passes for officials. On the other hand, the IMC has rubbished all such charges. On Monday (October 03), a team of IMC officials arrived at the MPCA officials and accused the body of not paying the property tax for the stadium. To this, MPCA office bearers protested and pointed out that the last date is months away, i.e. March 31. While the officials confirmed that the payment will be made by then, they paid INR 3.2 million (INR 32 lakhs) to settle the matter ahead of the series finale between Team India and South Africa. In addition, the IMC team demanded entertainment tax for previous matches. It is to be noted that the tax liability of those encounters is not the MPCA's responsibility but on the organisers. The entertainment tax for Tuesday's T20I can only be paid after the match since the final ticket sale won't be known before that. ALSO READ | Wait, what? West Indies' Shimron Hetmyer dropped from T20 WC squad for missing flight to Australia "I'm aghast at the timing of the raid. I am told all this was done to get passes for a junior IAS officer posted in the Indore Municipal Corporation. We decided to settle their tax demand ahead of the due date because we did not want anything to come in the way of organizing the match. The reputation of the state and country is at stake whenever there is an international match," said MPCA President Abhilash Khandekar. "The additional commissioner Lata Agarwal kept repeating that the IMC Commissioner had sent her," said Khandekar. "How many passes can we keep doling out? This freebie culture has to end," added the President. Talking about the India-SA T20Is, Rohit Sharma & Co. have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead after a 16-run win in the second and penultimate tie in Guwahati on Sunday (October 02). India will like to continue their winning run and inflict a whitewash over Temba Bavuma & Co. in the final encounter, which will be the national side's last appearance on the 22-yard cricket strip before heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, from October 16.

India vs SA, 3rd T20I: Indore Municipal Corporation raids MP Cricket Association ahead of final encounter

India will be looking to continue their winning momentum and put their bowling attack to the test when they lock horns with South Africa in the third and final T20I in Indore on Tuesday. The Men in Blue have already clinched the series with back-to-back wins in the first two games but the dead rubber remains a crucial one for them as they look to finalise their pace attack for T20 World Cup 2022.

With Jasprit Bumrah ruled out and Mohammed Shami not part of the ongoing series, Mohammed Siraj might finally get a chance to showcase his skills in the third T20I against the Proteas. He was roped in as Bumrah's replacement in the series but is yet to get a game.&nbsp;

If Shami replaces Bumrah in the T20 World Cup squad, Siraj might get a spot in the reserves considering he impresses with his bowling against the visitors. India's death bowling woes were there for everyone to see as the likes of Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel were taken to the cleaners in the high-scoring 2nd T20I.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-sends-heartfelt-message-to-jasprit-bumrah-after-pacer-gets-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-2022-522295">Hardik Pandya sends heartfelt message to Jasprit Bumrah after pacer gets ruled out of T20 World Cup 2022</a>

India have rested KL Rahul and Virat Kohli for the final game and are likely to open with Rishabh Pant or Suryakumar Yadav. While Yadav has been firing all cylinders at no.4, Pant hasn't got a chance to bat yet in the ongoing series against South Africa.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammed-shami-set-to-replace-jasprit-bumrah-in-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-siraj-to-be-in-standbys-report-522264">Mohammed Shami set to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup squad, Siraj to be in standbys - Report</a>

While Pant is likely to get an opportunity in the top order,&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, who is part of the squad, is likely to walk into the playing XI in the absence of Kohli and Rahul. India might not play a specialist spinner as they would like to include one of Siraj or Umesh Yadav as an extra pacer in what is their final game&nbsp;ahead of the T20 World Cup.

India's predicted playing XI for the 3rd T20I against South Africa:

Rohit Sharma (C), Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar, Mohammad Siraj/Umesh Yadav

India will be looking to continue their winning momentum and put their bowling attack to the test when they lock horns with South Africa in the third and final T20I in Indore on Tuesday.

India will be looking to continue their winning momentum and put their bowling attack to the test when they lock horns with South Africa in the third and final T20I in Indore on Tuesday. The Men in Blue have already clinched the series with back-to-back wins in the first two games but the dead rubber remains a crucial one for them as they look to finalise their pace attack for T20 World Cup 2022. With Jasprit Bumrah ruled out and Mohammed Shami not part of the ongoing series, Mohammed Siraj might finally get a chance to showcase his skills in the third T20I against the Proteas. He was roped in as Bumrah's replacement in the series but is yet to get a game. If Shami replaces Bumrah in the T20 World Cup squad, Siraj might get a spot in the reserves considering he impresses with his bowling against the visitors. India's death bowling woes were there for everyone to see as the likes of Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel were taken to the cleaners in the high-scoring 2nd T20I. Also Read: Hardik Pandya sends heartfelt message to Jasprit Bumrah after pacer gets ruled out of T20 World Cup 2022 India have rested KL Rahul and Virat Kohli for the final game and are likely to open with Rishabh Pant or Suryakumar Yadav. While Yadav has been firing all cylinders at no.4, Pant hasn't got a chance to bat yet in the ongoing series against South Africa. Also Read: Mohammed Shami set to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup squad, Siraj to be in standbys - Report While Pant is likely to get an opportunity in the top order, Shreyas Iyer, who is part of the squad, is likely to walk into the playing XI in the absence of Kohli and Rahul. India might not play a specialist spinner as they would like to include one of Siraj or Umesh Yadav as an extra pacer in what is their final game ahead of the T20 World Cup. India's predicted playing XI for the 3rd T20I against South Africa: Rohit Sharma (C), Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar, Mohammad Siraj/Umesh Yadav

Rishabh Pant to open, Shreyas Iyer to return? India's predicted playing XI for 3rd T20I against South Africa

India and South Africa engaged in a high-scoring encounter in Guwahati on Sunday evening (October 02). With a 1-0 series lead, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. were on the cusp of achieving their first-ever T20I series win versus the Proteas at home and achieved it with a 16-run win in pursuit of a mammoth 237/3.

Being asked to bat first, India rode on Rohit-KL Rahul's electrifying start as they put on an impressive 96-run stand. Rahul's 28-ball 57, Rohit's 43, Suryakumar Yadav's 22-ball 61, Virat Kohli's 49 not out and Dinesh Karthik's 7-ball 17*, India posted their highest-ever T20I score and reduced SA to 47-3 in their run-chase of 238.

From thereon, David Miller-Quinton de Kock's unbeaten 174-run third-wicket stand dominated proceedings as Indian bowlers leaked plenty in the death overs but ensured Proteas' slow start meant them&nbsp;finishing&nbsp;second. Miller's 47-ball 106 not out and De Kock's 69* couldn't take their side past the finish line as India took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-south-africa-by-16-runs-in-2nd-t20i-by-16-runs-take-unassailable-2-0-lead-521866">India beat South Africa by 16 runs in 2nd T20I by 16 runs, take unassailable 2-0 lead</a>

A record-breaking day for Hitman

While Rohit became the first-ever Indian captain to lead the national side to a home T20I series triumph over SA, he also created history by becoming the first-ever Indian to play 400 T20s.&nbsp;The list is spearheaded&nbsp;by Kieron Pollard. The former West Indies captain has featured in 614 matches. He is followed by Dwayne Bravo (556),&nbsp;Pakistan's Shoaib Malik (481), Universe Boss Chris Gayle (463), Sunil Narine (435), Ravi Bopara (429), Andre Russell (428) and David Miller (403). Rohit now comes next, having&nbsp;played his 400th T20 during the Guwahati encounter.

Among Indians,&nbsp;Karthik comes after Rohit, with 368 T20s. Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni occupies the 3rd spot with 361 caps whereas Virat Kohli played&nbsp;his 354th T20 during the Guwahati high-scorer.

India and South Africa engaged in a high-scoring encounter in Guwahati on Sunday evening (October 02). With a 1-0 series lead, Rohit Sharma & Co. were on the cusp of achieving their first-ever T20I series win versus the Proteas at home and achieved it with a 16-run win in pursuit of a mammoth 237/3.

India and South Africa engaged in a high-scoring encounter in Guwahati on Sunday evening (October 02). With a 1-0 series lead, Rohit Sharma & Co. were on the cusp of achieving their first-ever T20I series win versus the Proteas at home and achieved it with a 16-run win in pursuit of a mammoth 237/3. Being asked to bat first, India rode on Rohit-KL Rahul's electrifying start as they put on an impressive 96-run stand. Rahul's 28-ball 57, Rohit's 43, Suryakumar Yadav's 22-ball 61, Virat Kohli's 49 not out and Dinesh Karthik's 7-ball 17*, India posted their highest-ever T20I score and reduced SA to 47-3 in their run-chase of 238. From thereon, David Miller-Quinton de Kock's unbeaten 174-run third-wicket stand dominated proceedings as Indian bowlers leaked plenty in the death overs but ensured Proteas' slow start meant them finishing second. Miller's 47-ball 106 not out and De Kock's 69* couldn't take their side past the finish line as India took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process. ALSO READ | India beat South Africa by 16 runs in 2nd T20I by 16 runs, take unassailable 2-0 lead A record-breaking day for Hitman While Rohit became the first-ever Indian captain to lead the national side to a home T20I series triumph over SA, he also created history by becoming the first-ever Indian to play 400 T20s. The list is spearheaded by Kieron Pollard. The former West Indies captain has featured in 614 matches. He is followed by Dwayne Bravo (556), Pakistan's Shoaib Malik (481), Universe Boss Chris Gayle (463), Sunil Narine (435), Ravi Bopara (429), Andre Russell (428) and David Miller (403). Rohit now comes next, having played his 400th T20 during the Guwahati encounter. Among Indians, Karthik comes after Rohit, with 368 T20s. Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni occupies the 3rd spot with 361 caps whereas Virat Kohli played his 354th T20 during the Guwahati high-scorer.

Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma achieves MASSIVE feat in Guwahati, becomes first Indian to play 400 T20s

After India beat South Africa in the second and penultimate T20I, on Sunday evening (October 02) in Guwahati, Virat Kohli is likely to miss the Indore encounter on Tuesday (October 04). Rohit Sharma-led India won their maiden T20I series at home versus the Proteas and now it seems like the Indian team management is set to rest Kohli from the inconsequential tie in Indore.

Social media users pictured Kohli at the Mumbai airport a day after India's historic series win over SA. Here's the viral image:

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Virat Kohli's latest picture at Mumbai Airport today. <a href="https://t.co/ocjZq6Dw1q">pic.twitter.com/ocjZq6Dw1q</a>
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImTanujSingh/status/1576880362147356673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-refuses-strike-from-dinesh-karthik-remains-stranded-on-49-in-guwahati-t20i-vs-sa-watch-522027">Virat Kohli refuses strike from Dinesh Karthik, remains stranded on 49* in Guwahati T20I vs SA - Watch</a>

Thus, it is likely that Kohli won't travel to Indore with the Indian team for the series finale on Tuesday evening. Given that the 33-year-old remains one of India's key players in the run-up to the 2022 T20 World Cup, from October 16 in Australia, it might be possible that Rahul Dravid-Rohit-led team management has rested Kohli with the series already in India's grasp.

Since his international return, during the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Kohli has been in sublime form. He has amassed&nbsp;404 runs in 10 innings at an average of 57.71 and strike-rate of 141.75; including a ton and three half-centuries. In the India-SA second T20I in Guwahati, the right-hander remained stranded on 49, off 24 balls, and helped India post 237/3. Later, David Miller smacked an impressive 106, off 47 deliveries, but couldn't take his side home as they finished at 221-3.

After India beat South Africa in the second and penultimate T20I, on Sunday evening (October 02) in Guwahati, Virat Kohli is likely to miss the Indore encounter on Tuesday (October 04).

After India beat South Africa in the second and penultimate T20I, on Sunday evening (October 02) in Guwahati, Virat Kohli is likely to miss the Indore encounter on Tuesday (October 04). Rohit Sharma-led India won their maiden T20I series at home versus the Proteas and now it seems like the Indian team management is set to rest Kohli from the inconsequential tie in Indore. Social media users pictured Kohli at the Mumbai airport a day after India's historic series win over SA. Here's the viral image: Virat Kohli's latest picture at Mumbai Airport today. pic.twitter.com/ocjZq6Dw1q — CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) October 3, 2022 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli refuses strike from Dinesh Karthik, remains stranded on 49* in Guwahati T20I vs SA - Watch Thus, it is likely that Kohli won't travel to Indore with the Indian team for the series finale on Tuesday evening. Given that the 33-year-old remains one of India's key players in the run-up to the 2022 T20 World Cup, from October 16 in Australia, it might be possible that Rahul Dravid-Rohit-led team management has rested Kohli with the series already in India's grasp. Since his international return, during the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Kohli has been in sublime form. He has amassed 404 runs in 10 innings at an average of 57.71 and strike-rate of 141.75; including a ton and three half-centuries. In the India-SA second T20I in Guwahati, the right-hander remained stranded on 49, off 24 balls, and helped India post 237/3. Later, David Miller smacked an impressive 106, off 47 deliveries, but couldn't take his side home as they finished at 221-3.

Virat Kohli to miss 3rd T20I vs SA? Former captain spotted at Mumbai airport after India's series win

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced India's 16-man squad for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa at home. None of the players who are part of India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 later this month, are part of the ODI squad and are set to be rested.

In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma and limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan will once again lead India in the ODIs. All-rounder Rajat Patidar and young fast bowler Mukesh Kumar have earned their maiden India call-ups for the ODI series against the Proteas.

Patidar has been rewarded for his heroics for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL 2022 and his consistent performances in the domestic circuit. The right-hand batter was a revelation for RCB last season with an impressive 333 runs in just 8 matches. Kuldeep, on the other hand, has continued his fine for the Rest of India in the ongoing Irani Trophy against Saurashtra.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-like-to-like-replacement-for-jasprit-bumrah-in-the-world-let-alone-india-shane-watson-521743">No like-to-like replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in the world, let alone India: Shane Watson</a>

While Dhawan will be the first-choice opener, it remains to be seen who will pair up with him on the top with India having plenty of options in the likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill. Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar, who are part of India's standby list for the T20 World Cup, are also part of the squad.

It will be a fresh-look bowling attack for India as almost all the regulars have been rested. Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack alongside the likes of Mukesh, Avesh Khan and Chahar. Kuldeep Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi are the two specialist spinners in the squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fast-bowlers-who-can-replace-injured-jasprit-bumrah-in-indias-t20-world-cup-2022-squad-521595">Fast bowlers who can replace injured Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad</a>

India's 16-man squad for South Africa ODI series:

Shikhar Dhawan (C), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubhman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Shahbaz Ahmed, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Mohd. Siraj, Deepak Chahar.

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced India's 16-man squad for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa at home. None of the players who are part of India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 later this month, are part of the ODI squad and are set to be rested.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced India's 16-man squad for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa at home. None of the players who are part of India's 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 later this month, are part of the ODI squad and are set to be rested. In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma and limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan will once again lead India in the ODIs. All-rounder Rajat Patidar and young fast bowler Mukesh Kumar have earned their maiden India call-ups for the ODI series against the Proteas. Patidar has been rewarded for his heroics for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL 2022 and his consistent performances in the domestic circuit. The right-hand batter was a revelation for RCB last season with an impressive 333 runs in just 8 matches. Kuldeep, on the other hand, has continued his fine for the Rest of India in the ongoing Irani Trophy against Saurashtra. Also Read: No like-to-like replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in the world, let alone India: Shane Watson While Dhawan will be the first-choice opener, it remains to be seen who will pair up with him on the top with India having plenty of options in the likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shubman Gill. Shreyas Iyer and Deepak Chahar, who are part of India's standby list for the T20 World Cup, are also part of the squad. It will be a fresh-look bowling attack for India as almost all the regulars have been rested. Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack alongside the likes of Mukesh, Avesh Khan and Chahar. Kuldeep Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi are the two specialist spinners in the squad. Also Read: Fast bowlers who can replace injured Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad India's 16-man squad for South Africa ODI series: Shikhar Dhawan (C), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubhman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Shahbaz Ahmed, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Mohd. Siraj, Deepak Chahar.

Rajat Patidar and Mukesh Kumar earn maiden call-ups as India announce squad for South Africa ODI series

India and South Africa squared off against each other in the second and penultimate T20I in Guwahati on Sunday evening (October 02). Being asked to bat first, India rode on half-centuries from KL Rahul and in-form batter Suryakumar Yadav along with contributions from Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and a finishing cameo from Dinesh Karthik to post 237-3.

After reducing the Proteas to 46-3, India struggled to curtail the run-flow in the second half of the run-chase as centurion David Miller (47-ball 106 not out) and Quinton de Kock's 69* helped SA post 221-3; losing by 16 runs. During the match, the likes of captain Rohit (37-ball 43), KL Rahul (28-ball 55), Surya (22-ball 61), and Kohli (49 not out off 28 balls) provided enough entertainment for the crowd before DK joined in and played a useful cameo.

Kohli reached 49 on the second last ball of the 19th over, with a four off Anrich Nortje. He, however, missed scoring on the last ball before DK faced the entire last over off Kagiso Rabada. After facing the first four deliveries, DK seemingly asked Kohli if he wanted strike. To this, Kohli turned away quickly and asked him to have a go in the final two deliveries.

DK eventually helped India add 18 more runs with the bat, including a wide, with two sixes and a four. Here's the video of Kohli's selfless act:

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In addition to the run fest, a special moment as we sign off from Guwahati. ☺️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/DineshKarthik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DineshKarthik</a> <a href="https://t.co/SwNGX57Qkc">pic.twitter.com/SwNGX57Qkc</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1576647053916000256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/need-to-get-rohit-sharma-admits-indias-death-bowling-needs-improvement-after-2nd-t20i-win-vs-sa-522011">'Need to get...': Rohit Sharma admits India's death bowling needs improvement after 2nd T20I win vs SA</a>

At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit opined, "All of us came together and said it was what we wanted to do as a team. It might not come across at times, but we want to stick to it. What I have seen in the last 8-10 months is individuals putting their hand up and getting the job done for the team. Guys without too much experience did this as well. The team wants to play and bowl in a certain way and we want to give them that confidence. Yes, we have not bowled well at the death in the last five or six games. We are doing the same to the opposition as well. To bowl and bat at the death is very tough. That is where the game is decided. It is not concerning, but we need to pick ourselves and get our act together. I am thinking of not playing Surya anymore and play him directly on 23rd. This is how is game is and we just want to keep him happy."

India and South Africa squared off against each other in the second and penultimate T20I in Guwahati on Sunday evening (October 02). Being asked to bat first, India rode on half-centuries from KL Rahul and in-form batter Suryakumar Yadav along with contributions from Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and a finishing cameo from Dinesh Karthik to post 237-3.

India and South Africa squared off against each other in the second and penultimate T20I in Guwahati on Sunday evening (October 02). Being asked to bat first, India rode on half-centuries from KL Rahul and in-form batter Suryakumar Yadav along with contributions from Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and a finishing cameo from Dinesh Karthik to post 237-3. After reducing the Proteas to 46-3, India struggled to curtail the run-flow in the second half of the run-chase as centurion David Miller (47-ball 106 not out) and Quinton de Kock's 69* helped SA post 221-3; losing by 16 runs. During the match, the likes of captain Rohit (37-ball 43), KL Rahul (28-ball 55), Surya (22-ball 61), and Kohli (49 not out off 28 balls) provided enough entertainment for the crowd before DK joined in and played a useful cameo. Kohli reached 49 on the second last ball of the 19th over, with a four off Anrich Nortje. He, however, missed scoring on the last ball before DK faced the entire last over off Kagiso Rabada. After facing the first four deliveries, DK seemingly asked Kohli if he wanted strike. To this, Kohli turned away quickly and asked him to have a go in the final two deliveries. DK eventually helped India add 18 more runs with the bat, including a wide, with two sixes and a four. Here's the video of Kohli's selfless act: In addition to the run fest, a special moment as we sign off from Guwahati. ☺️#TeamIndia | #INDvSA | @imVkohli | @DineshKarthik pic.twitter.com/SwNGX57Qkc — BCCI (@BCCI) October 2, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Need to get...': Rohit Sharma admits India's death bowling needs improvement after 2nd T20I win vs SA At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit opined, "All of us came together and said it was what we wanted to do as a team. It might not come across at times, but we want to stick to it. What I have seen in the last 8-10 months is individuals putting their hand up and getting the job done for the team. Guys without too much experience did this as well. The team wants to play and bowl in a certain way and we want to give them that confidence. Yes, we have not bowled well at the death in the last five or six games. We are doing the same to the opposition as well. To bowl and bat at the death is very tough. That is where the game is decided. It is not concerning, but we need to pick ourselves and get our act together. I am thinking of not playing Surya anymore and play him directly on 23rd. This is how is game is and we just want to keep him happy."

Virat Kohli refuses strike from Dinesh Karthik, remains stranded on 49* in Guwahati T20I vs SA - Watch

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday evening (October 02). After a 1-0 lead, India had a chance to win their maiden T20I series versus the Proteas on home soil. Being asked to bat first, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. rode on quickfire half-centuries from KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav apart from contributions from Rohit, Virat Kohli (49 not out) and Dinesh Karthik (7-ball 17*) to post 237-3.

In reply, South Africa were quickly reduced to 47 for 3 and looked out of the contest. However, a terrific 174-run unbeaten fourth-wicket stand between centurion David Miller (47-ball 106*) and Quinton de Kock's 48-ball 67* took SA to 221/3; losing by 16 runs. As a result, India's bowling in the second half of SA's run-chase was not upto the mark.&nbsp;

Indian bowlers leaked as many as a whopping 151 runs&nbsp;last ten overs. The last four overs saw Miller-De Kock smack 65 runs. Hence, Hitman opined on India's death bowling, which has remained below par since the Asia Cup 2022 edition.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-rohit-sharma-achieves-massive-feat-in-guwahati-becomes-first-indian-to-play-400-t20s-521932">Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma achieves MASSIVE feat in Guwahati, becomes first Indian to play 400 T20s</a>

"The team wants to play and bowl in a certain way and we want to give them that freedom. Yes, we have not really bowled well in the death in the last five or six games. But that is the area where people will challenge us and we are doing the same to the opposition as well."

"To bowl and bat at the death is very tough. That is where the game is decided. I wouldn't say it's concerning, but it's definitely an area we need to pick ourselves up and get our act together," the skipper pointed out at the post-match presentation.

India will meet Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. for the final T20I on Wednesday (October 04) before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday evening (October 02). After a 1-0 lead, India had a chance to win their maiden T20I series versus the Proteas on home soil.

India and South Africa locked horns in the second and penultimate T20I on Sunday evening (October 02). After a 1-0 lead, India had a chance to win their maiden T20I series versus the Proteas on home soil. Being asked to bat first, Rohit Sharma & Co. rode on quickfire half-centuries from KL Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav apart from contributions from Rohit, Virat Kohli (49 not out) and Dinesh Karthik (7-ball 17*) to post 237-3. In reply, South Africa were quickly reduced to 47 for 3 and looked out of the contest. However, a terrific 174-run unbeaten fourth-wicket stand between centurion David Miller (47-ball 106*) and Quinton de Kock's 48-ball 67* took SA to 221/3; losing by 16 runs. As a result, India's bowling in the second half of SA's run-chase was not upto the mark. Indian bowlers leaked as many as a whopping 151 runs last ten overs. The last four overs saw Miller-De Kock smack 65 runs. Hence, Hitman opined on India's death bowling, which has remained below par since the Asia Cup 2022 edition. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma achieves MASSIVE feat in Guwahati, becomes first Indian to play 400 T20s "The team wants to play and bowl in a certain way and we want to give them that freedom. Yes, we have not really bowled well in the death in the last five or six games. But that is the area where people will challenge us and we are doing the same to the opposition as well." "To bowl and bat at the death is very tough. That is where the game is decided. I wouldn't say it's concerning, but it's definitely an area we need to pick ourselves up and get our act together," the skipper pointed out at the post-match presentation. India will meet Temba Bavuma & Co. for the final T20I on Wednesday (October 04) before leaving for Australia for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

'Need to get...': Rohit Sharma admits India's death bowling needs improvement after 2nd T20I win vs SA

India defeated South Africa by 16 runs in a high-scoring second T20I to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Sunday.

Sent in to bat, India posted a massive 237 for three, riding on a solid batting display by the top four and then returned to restrict the visitors to 221 for 3 in the stipulated 20 overs.

Quinton de Kock (69 not out) and David Miller (106 not out) did the bulk of scoring for the visitors.

KL Rahul (57) and Rohit Sharma (43) put on a 96-run opening stand to set the foundation for India at the Barsapara cricket stadium here.

Suryakumar Yadav (61) then took centre stage as he smashed five boundaries and as many sixes en route to his 102-run stand off just 40 balls with Virat Kohli (49 not out).

Dinesh Karthik then made some lusty blows in his seven-ball 17 not out.

Keshav Maharaj (2/23) was the most successful bowler for South Africa but it turned out to be a disastrous day for the rest of his bowling colleagues.

For India, Arshdeep Singh (2/62) and Axar Patel (1/53) were the wicket-takers.

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Multiple records were broken in India's win over South Africa in the high-scoring T20I in Guwahati 👀 
 
Details ⬇️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/XqOtmIsazn">https://t.co/XqOtmIsazn</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1576630833426956288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
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India seal a win to take a 2-0 lead in the series ✌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> | Scorecard: <a href="https://t.co/jYtuRUcl0f">https://t.co/jYtuRUcl0f</a> <a href="https://t.co/To2VsXsqpF">pic.twitter.com/To2VsXsqpF</a>
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Brief Score: 
India: 237 for 3 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 61, KL Rahul 57, Virat Kohli 49 not out; Keshav Maharaj 2/23). 
South Africa: 221 for 3 in 20 overs (David Miller 106 not out, Quinton de Kock 69 not out; Arshdeep Singh 2/62). 
&nbsp;

India defeated South Africa by 16 runs in a high-scoring second T20I to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Sunday. Sent in to bat, India posted a massive 237 for three, riding on a solid batting display by the top four and then returned to restrict the visitors to 221 for 3 in the stipulated 20 overs.

India defeated South Africa by 16 runs in a high-scoring second T20I to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Sunday. Sent in to bat, India posted a massive 237 for three, riding on a solid batting display by the top four and then returned to restrict the visitors to 221 for 3 in the stipulated 20 overs. Quinton de Kock (69 not out) and David Miller (106 not out) did the bulk of scoring for the visitors. KL Rahul (57) and Rohit Sharma (43) put on a 96-run opening stand to set the foundation for India at the Barsapara cricket stadium here. Suryakumar Yadav (61) then took centre stage as he smashed five boundaries and as many sixes en route to his 102-run stand off just 40 balls with Virat Kohli (49 not out). Dinesh Karthik then made some lusty blows in his seven-ball 17 not out. Keshav Maharaj (2/23) was the most successful bowler for South Africa but it turned out to be a disastrous day for the rest of his bowling colleagues. For India, Arshdeep Singh (2/62) and Axar Patel (1/53) were the wicket-takers. Multiple records were broken in India's win over South Africa in the high-scoring T20I in Guwahati 👀 Details ⬇️#INDvSA https://t.co/XqOtmIsazn — ICC (@ICC) October 2, 2022 × India seal a win to take a 2-0 lead in the series ✌🏻#INDvSA | Scorecard: https://t.co/jYtuRUcl0f pic.twitter.com/To2VsXsqpF — ICC (@ICC) October 2, 2022 × Brief Score: India: 237 for 3 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 61, KL Rahul 57, Virat Kohli 49 not out; Keshav Maharaj 2/23). South Africa: 221 for 3 in 20 overs (David Miller 106 not out, Quinton de Kock 69 not out; Arshdeep Singh 2/62).

India beat South Africa by 16 runs in 2nd T20I, take unassailable 2-0 lead

India will be looking to continue their winning run when they take on South Africa in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series on Sunday (October 02). The hosts thrashed the Proteas by eight wickets in the series-opener to go 1-0 up after a clinical bowling performance.

Despite leading in the three-match series, India have more questions than answers as fast as the team combination for the upcoming T20 World Cup is concerned as ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out due to a back injury. Bumrah is reportedly set to miss the T20 World Cup, or at least the start of the tournament.

In his absence, India's pace attack looks imbalanced and the onus will fall on the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel and Arshdeep Singh to step up and deliver during the World Cup. While Bhuvneshwar has been rested from the South Africa series, Mohammed Siraj has been roped in as a replacement for Bumrah in the ongoing three-match rubber.

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However, Siraj is unlikely to get a chance in the playing XI in the second T20I as the host will be looking to use the trio of Deepak Chahar, Arshdeep and Harshal in the game after their brilliant performance in the series-opener. Arshdeep and Chahar had picked up five wickets between them to run through South Africa's top order.

Axar Patel and R Ashwin are likely to be the two spinners in the bowling attack as no major changes are expected from the line-up that played the first T20I. In the batting department, KL Rahul will be under the scanner once again after he was criticised for his sluggish knock in the first game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-has-gone-to-the-nca-we-are-waiting-on-official-confirmation-on-fitness-rahul-dravid-521558">Jasprit Bumrah has gone to NCA, we are waiting for official confirmation on his fitness: Rahul Dravid</a>

While he slammed an unbeaten 51, Rahul's strike rate of 91.07 didn't please many. Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav will be hoping to continue their fine form with the bat to help India make it two wins on the trot against the Proteas.

India's predicted playing XI for the 2nd T20I against South Africa:

Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Dinesh Karthik, R Ashwin, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

India will be looking to continue their winning run when they take on South Africa in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series on Sunday (October 02). The hosts thrashed the Proteas by eight wickets in the series-opener to go 1-0 up after a clinical bowling performance.

India will be looking to continue their winning run when they take on South Africa in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series on Sunday (October 02). The hosts thrashed the Proteas by eight wickets in the series-opener to go 1-0 up after a clinical bowling performance. Despite leading in the three-match series, India have more questions than answers as fast as the team combination for the upcoming T20 World Cup is concerned as ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out due to a back injury. Bumrah is reportedly set to miss the T20 World Cup, or at least the start of the tournament. In his absence, India's pace attack looks imbalanced and the onus will fall on the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel and Arshdeep Singh to step up and deliver during the World Cup. While Bhuvneshwar has been rested from the South Africa series, Mohammed Siraj has been roped in as a replacement for Bumrah in the ongoing three-match rubber. Also Read: No like-to-like replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in the world, let alone India: Shane Watson However, Siraj is unlikely to get a chance in the playing XI in the second T20I as the host will be looking to use the trio of Deepak Chahar, Arshdeep and Harshal in the game after their brilliant performance in the series-opener. Arshdeep and Chahar had picked up five wickets between them to run through South Africa's top order. Axar Patel and R Ashwin are likely to be the two spinners in the bowling attack as no major changes are expected from the line-up that played the first T20I. In the batting department, KL Rahul will be under the scanner once again after he was criticised for his sluggish knock in the first game. Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah has gone to NCA, we are waiting for official confirmation on his fitness: Rahul Dravid While he slammed an unbeaten 51, Rahul's strike rate of 91.07 didn't please many. Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav will be hoping to continue their fine form with the bat to help India make it two wins on the trot against the Proteas. India's predicted playing XI for the 2nd T20I against South Africa: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Dinesh Karthik, R Ashwin, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

Will Mohammed Siraj make the cut? India's predicted playing XI for 2nd T20I against South Africa

Veteran Pakistan wicket-keeper batter Kamran Akmal heaped praise on young Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh after his brilliant spell in the first T20I against South Africa on Wednesday. Arshdeep was sensational with the new ball as he combined with Deepak Chahar to run through South Africa's top order with a three-wicket haul.

Making the most of the swinging conditions at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Arshdeep and Chahar reduced South Africa to 9/5 inside 15 balls after the hosts won the toss and opted to bowl first. India went on to win the game comfortably by 8 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Praising Arshdeep for his intelligence and skills, Akmal went on to compare the 23-year-old with former India pacer Zaheer Khan. Zaheer, who was part of India's 2001 World Cup-winning squad, is regarded as one of the best pacers to have played for the country.

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"Arshdeep Singh is an incredible bowler. I think the Indian team has found its next Zaheer Khan. Arshdeep has both pace and swing, and he has that bowling intelligence. He's mentally strong and knows his abilities, and uses them according to the conditions,” Akmal said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Arshdeep was on the money from the word go in the series-opener between India and South Africa on Wednesday. He picked up three wickets in his very first over of the game, including two wickets of Rilee Rossouw and David Miller on two straight deliveries to rattle the visitors. Akmal was impressed with Arshdeep's variations and said he still has a lot of potential&nbsp;to grow.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-what-is-back-stress-fracture-as-jasprit-bumrah-likely-to-be-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-521146">EXPLAINED! What is back stress fracture as Jasprit Bumrah likely to be ruled out of T20 World Cup</a>

“He dismissed Rilee Russouw caught-behind, bowled De Kock out. But the best wicket was that of David Miller because he kept getting the ball to move away from him before bowling a sharp inswinger to bowl him out. He bowls brilliantly and he is mature, has pace and is still young. It's a good sign for Team India because they needed a left-armer after Zaheer Khan,” Akmal added.

Arshdeep will be looking to continue his fine form with the ball when India take on South Africa in the second T20I between the two sides at the&nbsp;Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday.

Veteran Pakistan wicket-keeper batter Kamran Akmal heaped praise on young Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh after his brilliant spell in the first T20I against South Africa on Wednesday.

Veteran Pakistan wicket-keeper batter Kamran Akmal heaped praise on young Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh after his brilliant spell in the first T20I against South Africa on Wednesday. Arshdeep was sensational with the new ball as he combined with Deepak Chahar to run through South Africa's top order with a three-wicket haul. Making the most of the swinging conditions at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Arshdeep and Chahar reduced South Africa to 9/5 inside 15 balls after the hosts won the toss and opted to bowl first. India went on to win the game comfortably by 8 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Praising Arshdeep for his intelligence and skills, Akmal went on to compare the 23-year-old with former India pacer Zaheer Khan. Zaheer, who was part of India's 2001 World Cup-winning squad, is regarded as one of the best pacers to have played for the country. Also Read: Nepal cricketer Sandeep Lamicchane to surrender to authorities and fight against rape allegations "Arshdeep Singh is an incredible bowler. I think the Indian team has found its next Zaheer Khan. Arshdeep has both pace and swing, and he has that bowling intelligence. He's mentally strong and knows his abilities, and uses them according to the conditions,” Akmal said in a video on his YouTube channel. Arshdeep was on the money from the word go in the series-opener between India and South Africa on Wednesday. He picked up three wickets in his very first over of the game, including two wickets of Rilee Rossouw and David Miller on two straight deliveries to rattle the visitors. Akmal was impressed with Arshdeep's variations and said he still has a lot of potential to grow. Also Read: EXPLAINED! What is back stress fracture as Jasprit Bumrah likely to be ruled out of T20 World Cup “He dismissed Rilee Russouw caught-behind, bowled De Kock out. But the best wicket was that of David Miller because he kept getting the ball to move away from him before bowling a sharp inswinger to bowl him out. He bowls brilliantly and he is mature, has pace and is still young. It's a good sign for Team India because they needed a left-armer after Zaheer Khan,” Akmal added. Arshdeep will be looking to continue his fine form with the ball when India take on South Africa in the second T20I between the two sides at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday.

India have found their next Zaheer Khan: Kamran Akmal lauds Arshdeep Singh after his heroics against SA

On Thursday (September 29), India were dealt a huge blow as pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of action, as per reports, due to back stress fracture. The injury is likely to keep him out of action for four to six months, ruling him out of the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November.

While nothing is official regarding Bumrah's absence from the showpiece event Down Under, the 28-year-old pacer is officially out of the&nbsp;remainder of&nbsp;India-South Africa T20Is at home. On Friday (September 30), BCCI announced Mohammed Siraj as the replacement for Bumrah.

Confirming the news of Bumrah’s back injury and Siraj's inclusion, the BCCI tweeted, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team."

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🚨 NEWS 🚨: Mohd. Siraj replaces injured Jasprit Bumrah in T20I squad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> 
 
More Details 🔽<a href="https://t.co/o1HvH9XqcI">https://t.co/o1HvH9XqcI</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-team-india-jasprit-bumrah-ruled-out-of-t20-world-cup-with-back-stress-fracture-report-520857">Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of T20 World Cup with back stress fracture: Report</a>

Before Bumrah's injury news broke out, the Indian T20I squad for the SA series had already been revised once. With Mohammed Shami not fully fit after testing positive for Covid-19 and Deepak Hooda missing out due to back issues, BCCI had roped in Umesh Yadav and Shreyas Iyer respectively. Moreover, Shahbaz Ahmed was also included as another all-round option.

India have a 1-0 lead over Temba Bavuma &amp; Co., after an impressive eight-wicket win in the series opener in Trivandrum on September 28 (Wednesday). The second and penultimate game is&nbsp;in Guwahati on Sunday (October 02).

Revised India squad for South Africa T20Is:

Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed.

On Thursday (September 29), India were dealt a huge blow as pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of action, as per reports, due to back stress fracture. The injury is likely to keep him out of action for four to six months, ruling him out of the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November.

On Thursday (September 29), India were dealt a huge blow as pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of action, as per reports, due to back stress fracture. The injury is likely to keep him out of action for four to six months, ruling him out of the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia from October-November. While nothing is official regarding Bumrah's absence from the showpiece event Down Under, the 28-year-old pacer is officially out of the remainder of India-South Africa T20Is at home. On Friday (September 30), BCCI announced Mohammed Siraj as the replacement for Bumrah. Confirming the news of Bumrah’s back injury and Siraj's inclusion, the BCCI tweeted, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee named Mohd. Siraj as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the remainder of the T20I series against South Africa. Bumrah has sustained a back injury and is currently under the supervision of the BCCI Medical Team." 🚨 NEWS 🚨: Mohd. Siraj replaces injured Jasprit Bumrah in T20I squad. #TeamIndia | #INDvSA More Details 🔽https://t.co/o1HvH9XqcI — BCCI (@BCCI) September 30, 2022 × ALSO READ | Big blow to Team India! Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of T20 World Cup with back stress fracture: Report Before Bumrah's injury news broke out, the Indian T20I squad for the SA series had already been revised once. With Mohammed Shami not fully fit after testing positive for Covid-19 and Deepak Hooda missing out due to back issues, BCCI had roped in Umesh Yadav and Shreyas Iyer respectively. Moreover, Shahbaz Ahmed was also included as another all-round option. India have a 1-0 lead over Temba Bavuma & Co., after an impressive eight-wicket win in the series opener in Trivandrum on September 28 (Wednesday). The second and penultimate game is in Guwahati on Sunday (October 02). Revised India squad for South Africa T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Md Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed.

Mohammed Siraj named replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah in remaining T20Is vs South Africa

India hosted South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). Opting to bowl first, India restricted Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. for a paltry 106-8 in 20 overs with Arshdeep Singh (3 for 32), Deepak Chahar (2 for 24) and Harshal Patel (2 for 26) starring with the ball in tough batting conditions.

In reply, India lost skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for cheap and were tottering at 17 for 2 before an unbeaten 93-run third-wicket partnership between half-centurions KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (who remained not out on 50 off 33 balls) rescued India and took them past the finish line.

After the match, many trolled Rahul for his slow strike rate (91.07).&nbsp;In the recent past, including the IPL, Rahul's strike rate has been criticised but the team management has insisted that he is batting as per the role allotted to him (i.e. of an accumulator). Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra is baffled with the criticism and feels it is irrelevant keeping in mind the nature of the surface and India's poor start in pursuit of 107.

"People are just blasting Rahul for his knock, I can't understand why. If you are chasing only 107, and the conditions are difficult, why will the batter look to hit? It is okay to score ugly runs as well, it takes courage and guts," Chopra said on his Youtube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-rohit-sharma-goes-past-ms-dhoni-to-achieve-most-t20i-wins-by-indian-captain-in-a-calendar-year-520873">Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma goes past MS Dhoni to achieve most T20I wins by Indian captain in a calendar year</a>

"Had he decided to start striking the ball and got out instead of settling, then that would have been irresponsible. He batted really well, in my opinion: respected the conditions and the situation and played accordingly. So please cut him some slack," Chopra added.

After the match, Rahul told the broadcasters,&nbsp;"We did practice here yesterday and that was a humbling experience as well, we all came in prepared mentally as it was not going to be an easy wicket and I was ready to do the dirty work, ready to be challenged and get the job done for the team."

Rahul's strike rate was around&nbsp;50 for most part of his&nbsp;inning&nbsp;versus the Proteas. Given Surya was going very well at the other end and India weren't chasing a big score, Rahul did the right thing by playing as per the situation and held one end with sensible cricket.

India hosted South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). Opting to bowl first, India restricted Temba Bavuma & Co.

India hosted South Africa in the three-match T20I series opener at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). Opting to bowl first, India restricted Temba Bavuma & Co. for a paltry 106-8 in 20 overs with Arshdeep Singh (3 for 32), Deepak Chahar (2 for 24) and Harshal Patel (2 for 26) starring with the ball in tough batting conditions. In reply, India lost skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for cheap and were tottering at 17 for 2 before an unbeaten 93-run third-wicket partnership between half-centurions KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (who remained not out on 50 off 33 balls) rescued India and took them past the finish line. After the match, many trolled Rahul for his slow strike rate (91.07). In the recent past, including the IPL, Rahul's strike rate has been criticised but the team management has insisted that he is batting as per the role allotted to him (i.e. of an accumulator). Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra is baffled with the criticism and feels it is irrelevant keeping in mind the nature of the surface and India's poor start in pursuit of 107. "People are just blasting Rahul for his knock, I can't understand why. If you are chasing only 107, and the conditions are difficult, why will the batter look to hit? It is okay to score ugly runs as well, it takes courage and guts," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma goes past MS Dhoni to achieve most T20I wins by Indian captain in a calendar year "Had he decided to start striking the ball and got out instead of settling, then that would have been irresponsible. He batted really well, in my opinion: respected the conditions and the situation and played accordingly. So please cut him some slack," Chopra added. After the match, Rahul told the broadcasters, "We did practice here yesterday and that was a humbling experience as well, we all came in prepared mentally as it was not going to be an easy wicket and I was ready to do the dirty work, ready to be challenged and get the job done for the team." Rahul's strike rate was around 50 for most part of his inning versus the Proteas. Given Surya was going very well at the other end and India weren't chasing a big score, Rahul did the right thing by playing as per the situation and held one end with sensible cricket.

'Please cut him some slack' - Aakash Chopra tells KL Rahul's critics after his 56-ball 51* vs SA

Rohit Sharma-led India faced South Africa in the three-match T20I series at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). After beating Australia in the three T20Is, 2-1, India were favourites to get past Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. in the series opener.&nbsp;

Everything clicked for India from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Rohit &amp; Co. restricted a strong South African line-up for a paltry 106/8 in 20 overs. In reply, India lost two quick wickets and were reduced to 17-2 before unbeaten half-centuries from KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (50 not out off 33 balls) propelled India to an eight-wicket win with 20 balls to spare.

After earning another win in 2022, where India have had a dream run in the shortest format barring their blip in the Asia Cup, Rohit broke former captain MS Dhoni's elite record of most victories in the format by an Indian skipper in a calendar year. Dhoni had achieved 16 wins as the T20I captain in 2016. With the easy victory over SA, Rohit has now won 16 games as India's T20I skipper in 2022.

Hitman will look to add more to his tally by the end of 2022, by winning the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia.

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At the post-match presentation of the first T20I versus SA, Rohit said, "The wicket was tricky. You learn a lot playing such a game. You understand what the team needs to do in tough conditions. It was nice to play a game like that. We knew the bowlers will get something seeing grass on the pitch, but we didn't expected help for the full 20 overs. It was still damp. Both teams were in the contest and the team that played better won the game. We started well, got 5 wickets in quick time and that was the turning point. Perfect showcase of how to bowl when there is help for the pacers (talking about Deepak Chahar and Arshdeep). We knew it wasn't going to be easy. Got to respect the conditions. Lost two wickets and that partnership between KL and Surya got us home."

Rohit Sharma-led India faced South Africa in the three-match T20I series at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). After beating Australia in the three T20Is, 2-1, India were favourites to get past Temba Bavuma & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led India faced South Africa in the three-match T20I series at Trivandrum on Wednesday evening (September 28). After beating Australia in the three T20Is, 2-1, India were favourites to get past Temba Bavuma & Co. in the series opener. Everything clicked for India from the word go. Opting to bowl first, Rohit & Co. restricted a strong South African line-up for a paltry 106/8 in 20 overs. In reply, India lost two quick wickets and were reduced to 17-2 before unbeaten half-centuries from KL Rahul (56-ball 51*) and Suryakumar Yadav (50 not out off 33 balls) propelled India to an eight-wicket win with 20 balls to spare. After earning another win in 2022, where India have had a dream run in the shortest format barring their blip in the Asia Cup, Rohit broke former captain MS Dhoni's elite record of most victories in the format by an Indian skipper in a calendar year. Dhoni had achieved 16 wins as the T20I captain in 2016. With the easy victory over SA, Rohit has now won 16 games as India's T20I skipper in 2022. Hitman will look to add more to his tally by the end of 2022, by winning the forthcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. ALSO READ | Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar run riot as India thrash South Africa by 8 wickets in 1st T20I At the post-match presentation of the first T20I versus SA, Rohit said, "The wicket was tricky. You learn a lot playing such a game. You understand what the team needs to do in tough conditions. It was nice to play a game like that. We knew the bowlers will get something seeing grass on the pitch, but we didn't expected help for the full 20 overs. It was still damp. Both teams were in the contest and the team that played better won the game. We started well, got 5 wickets in quick time and that was the turning point. Perfect showcase of how to bowl when there is help for the pacers (talking about Deepak Chahar and Arshdeep). We knew it wasn't going to be easy. Got to respect the conditions. Lost two wickets and that partnership between KL and Surya got us home."

Ind vs SA: Rohit Sharma goes past MS Dhoni to achieve most T20I wins by Indian captain in a calendar year

Rohit Sharma-led India has had a dream run in T20Is in 2022 before a blip in the Asia Cup, in the UAE in August-September. After the continental tournament, India hosted Australia in a three-match T20I series and came from behind to win 2-1. Before taking the flight to Australia for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, from October-November, India will now face South Africa in three T20Is which gets underway on September 28 at the&nbsp;Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;

Rohit &amp; Co. will be without the services of all-rounder Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar with the duo being rested. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda's back injury and Md Shami still being Covid positive have forced the two to be out of action as well, with India roping in Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed being added to the squad.

South Africa, on the other hand, will be led by regular captain Temba Bavuma and a full-strength Proteas will look to give India a run for their money in the three T20Is. The visitors played a five-match T20I series versus a second-stringed India in early June, in the subcontinent, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate. They will look to get the better of the hosts this time around.&nbsp;

Here is everything you need to know about the 1st T20I - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs South Africa 1st T20I match taking place?

India vs South Africa 1st T20I&nbsp;will be played on September 28, 2022 (Wednesday).&nbsp;

Where is India vs South Africa 1st T20I&nbsp;taking place?

India vs South Africa 1st T20I will take place&nbsp;at the Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram.

At what time will the India vs South Africa 1st T20I start?

India vs South Africa 1st T20I&nbsp;will commence at 7:00 pm (IST).

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How to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I live on TV?

India vs South Africa 1st T20I will be aired live&nbsp;on the Star Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I live streaming?

India vs South Africa 1st T20I's live streaming will be available&nbsp;on Hotstar app and website.

Rohit Sharma-led India has had a dream run in T20Is in 2022 before a blip in the Asia Cup, in the UAE in August-September. After the continental tournament, India hosted Australia in a three-match T20I series and came from behind to win 2-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India has had a dream run in T20Is in 2022 before a blip in the Asia Cup, in the UAE in August-September. After the continental tournament, India hosted Australia in a three-match T20I series and came from behind to win 2-1. Before taking the flight to Australia for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, from October-November, India will now face South Africa in three T20Is which gets underway on September 28 at the Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram. Rohit & Co. will be without the services of all-rounder Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar with the duo being rested. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda's back injury and Md Shami still being Covid positive have forced the two to be out of action as well, with India roping in Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed being added to the squad. South Africa, on the other hand, will be led by regular captain Temba Bavuma and a full-strength Proteas will look to give India a run for their money in the three T20Is. The visitors played a five-match T20I series versus a second-stringed India in early June, in the subcontinent, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate. They will look to get the better of the hosts this time around. Here is everything you need to know about the 1st T20I - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs South Africa 1st T20I match taking place? India vs South Africa 1st T20I will be played on September 28, 2022 (Wednesday). Where is India vs South Africa 1st T20I taking place? India vs South Africa 1st T20I will take place at the Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram. At what time will the India vs South Africa 1st T20I start? India vs South Africa 1st T20I will commence at 7:00 pm (IST). ALSO READ | 'If Bhuvneshwar Kumar is listening...' - India's T20 WC medallist shares his two cents for out-of-form pacer How to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I live on TV? India vs South Africa 1st T20I will be aired live on the Star Sports Network. How to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I live streaming? India vs South Africa 1st T20I's live streaming will be available on Hotstar app and website.

Ind vs SA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I - IST time and streaming details

Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar hit the South Africans hard with some magical swing bowling before Suryakumar Yadav's little gem on a difficult track ensured an easy eight-wicket victory for India in the first T20 International here on Wednesday.

A target of 107 on a pitch with underlying moisture and more than waist-high bounce at times was a struggle before Suryakumar (50 not out in 33 balls) released the pressure created by KL Rahul (51 not out, 56 balls) and&nbsp;India won the game in 16.4 overs to go 1-0 up in the three-match series.

The pitch that former India head coach Ravi Shastri on air termed "not ideal for T20 cricket" had batters of both teams finding it difficult to cope with both pace and movement.

It was Arshdeep (3/32) and Chahar (2/24), who basically clinched the advantage for India within first 15 deliveries of the start after skipper Rohit Sharma called it right at the toss. Once South Africa were reeling at 9/5 in 2.3 overs, the game as a contest was over and 106/8 even on a difficult track was a sub-par score.

The South Africans did bowl their heart out in defence. Kagiso Rabada bowled an ideal Test match delivery that pitched on length and reared up while moving a shade and all Rohit Sharma (0) could do was to dangle his bat at the corridor of uncertainty.

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Virat Kohli (3) got an express delivery from Anrich Nortje that kept climbing as he tried to have a go away from his body and the edge was taken by Quinton de Kock.

Surya, India's best T20 batter by a distance, got a streaky six when his attempted flick turned into an outside edge that flew over third-man for a maximum off Nortje.

The next six was a picture-perfect whip over deep square leg and then an inside out six off Keshav Maharaj indicated that he is India's in-form man.

Rahul's batting at the other end on the same strip became an ordeal as India had their lowest ever Powerplay score on board. Just that there was no scoreboard pressure, Rahul could once play his waiting game and the only shot worth appreciating was a six off Nortje.

Earlier, Arshdeep and Chahar made the white Kookaburra talk with some incisive swing bowling after Jasprit Bumrah pulling out of the game due to his recurrent back problem which has resurfaced yet again.

The duo moved the ball both ways, making full use of the nip in the air and the bounce off the surface. Temba Bavuma (0) was nicely set up by Chahar with stock outswingers, which the skipper left alone before a banana inswinger had him bowled through the gate. The deviation into the batter was as big as it could be.

Arshdeep started by taking the ball shade away from the left-hander and Quinton de Kock (1) in his bid to get a move-on dragged one back onto the stumps.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-arshdeep-singh-breathes-fire-takes-3-wickets-in-a-single-over-to-rattle-south-africa-in-1st-t20i-520589">WATCH: Arshdeep Singh breathes fire, takes 3 wickets in a single over to rattle South Africa in 1st T20I</a>

The other left-hander Rilee Rossouw (0) also chased a wide outswinger (inswinger by the bowler) to nick one to Rishabh Pant behind the stumps. But it was the delivery by Arshdeep to David Miller (0) that will be remembered for a long time to come.

Miller was anticipating an outswinger and had committed on the front-foot only to find that the bowler had got one to bend back into him. His atrocious across-the-line shot would have resulted in only one thing and that was getting castled.

New T20 sensation Tristan Stubbs (0) didn't get enough wood to his slash over deep to a delivery from Chahar that bounced a shade more. The result was Arshdeep taking a well-judged catch diving in-front. With five wickets gone, there was no coming back for South Africa and predictably there wasn't any change in the script.

Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar hit the South Africans hard with some magical swing bowling before Suryakumar Yadav's little gem on a difficult track ensured an easy eight-wicket victory for India in the first T20 International here on Wednesday.

Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar hit the South Africans hard with some magical swing bowling before Suryakumar Yadav's little gem on a difficult track ensured an easy eight-wicket victory for India in the first T20 International here on Wednesday. A target of 107 on a pitch with underlying moisture and more than waist-high bounce at times was a struggle before Suryakumar (50 not out in 33 balls) released the pressure created by KL Rahul (51 not out, 56 balls) and India won the game in 16.4 overs to go 1-0 up in the three-match series. The pitch that former India head coach Ravi Shastri on air termed "not ideal for T20 cricket" had batters of both teams finding it difficult to cope with both pace and movement. It was Arshdeep (3/32) and Chahar (2/24), who basically clinched the advantage for India within first 15 deliveries of the start after skipper Rohit Sharma called it right at the toss. Once South Africa were reeling at 9/5 in 2.3 overs, the game as a contest was over and 106/8 even on a difficult track was a sub-par score. The South Africans did bowl their heart out in defence. Kagiso Rabada bowled an ideal Test match delivery that pitched on length and reared up while moving a shade and all Rohit Sharma (0) could do was to dangle his bat at the corridor of uncertainty. Also Read: Indian cricketer Taniya Bhatia slams London hotel for no response after robbery complaint Virat Kohli (3) got an express delivery from Anrich Nortje that kept climbing as he tried to have a go away from his body and the edge was taken by Quinton de Kock. Surya, India's best T20 batter by a distance, got a streaky six when his attempted flick turned into an outside edge that flew over third-man for a maximum off Nortje. The next six was a picture-perfect whip over deep square leg and then an inside out six off Keshav Maharaj indicated that he is India's in-form man. Rahul's batting at the other end on the same strip became an ordeal as India had their lowest ever Powerplay score on board. Just that there was no scoreboard pressure, Rahul could once play his waiting game and the only shot worth appreciating was a six off Nortje. Earlier, Arshdeep and Chahar made the white Kookaburra talk with some incisive swing bowling after Jasprit Bumrah pulling out of the game due to his recurrent back problem which has resurfaced yet again. The duo moved the ball both ways, making full use of the nip in the air and the bounce off the surface. Temba Bavuma (0) was nicely set up by Chahar with stock outswingers, which the skipper left alone before a banana inswinger had him bowled through the gate. The deviation into the batter was as big as it could be. Arshdeep started by taking the ball shade away from the left-hander and Quinton de Kock (1) in his bid to get a move-on dragged one back onto the stumps. Also Read: WATCH: Arshdeep Singh breathes fire, takes 3 wickets in a single over to rattle South Africa in 1st T20I The other left-hander Rilee Rossouw (0) also chased a wide outswinger (inswinger by the bowler) to nick one to Rishabh Pant behind the stumps. But it was the delivery by Arshdeep to David Miller (0) that will be remembered for a long time to come. Miller was anticipating an outswinger and had committed on the front-foot only to find that the bowler had got one to bend back into him. His atrocious across-the-line shot would have resulted in only one thing and that was getting castled. New T20 sensation Tristan Stubbs (0) didn't get enough wood to his slash over deep to a delivery from Chahar that bounced a shade more. The result was Arshdeep taking a well-judged catch diving in-front. With five wickets gone, there was no coming back for South Africa and predictably there wasn't any change in the script.

Arshdeep Singh, Deepak Chahar run riot as India thrash South Africa by 8 wickets in 1st T20I

India were handed a massive blow ahead of the start of the first T20I against South Africa at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram as fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the game due to back issues. Despite his absence, India got off to a flying start with the ball as Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar breathed fire with the new ball.

The duo combined to rattle the South African top order after India won the toss and opted to bowl first in the game. Chahar drew the first blood for India by removing South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma on a duck before Arshdeep ran riot in his very first over of the match.

Making full use of the swing on offer, Arshdeep made the South African batters dance to his tunes as he ended up picking three wickets in his very first over, including two wickets of two straight deliveries. He started by cleaning up Quinton de Kock on 1 off 4 balls before Rille Rossouw was caught behind by Rishabh Pant on the 5th delivery of the second over.

Arshdeep then clean bowled David Miller on the final ball of the second over to take three wickets in his very first over of the match. He was on a hat-trick when he returned to bowl his second over but ended up missing out on the feat by a whisker.

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The dominance of Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar in the first 15 balls. <a href="https://t.co/tAMXzueynT">pic.twitter.com/tAMXzueynT</a>
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1575125230720208896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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After a brilliant second over from Arshdeep, Chahar returned to bowl the third and piled more misery on South Africa by dismissing young Tristan Stubbs cheaply on a duck. Arshdeep and Chahar joined forces to reduce the visitors to 9/5 inside just 15 deliveries to ensure India didn't miss Bumrah with the new ball.

It was a stunning start from the Indian pacers and the likes of Axar Patel and Harshal Patel ensured they kept the pressure on South Africa after the end of Powerplay. Harshal trapped Aiden Markram lbw to break the 33-run stand for the third wicket between him and Wayne Parnell before Axar joined the party by getting rid of Parnell on 24.

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After their superb start, India will be hoping to bundle out South Africa on a low-key total and chase it down comfortably to get off to a winning start in the three-match series. The three-match rubber against the Proteas is India's final T20I assignment ahead of the T20 World Cup next month.

India were handed a massive blow ahead of the start of the first T20I against South Africa at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram as fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the game due to back issues.

India were handed a massive blow ahead of the start of the first T20I against South Africa at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram as fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the game due to back issues. Despite his absence, India got off to a flying start with the ball as Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar breathed fire with the new ball. The duo combined to rattle the South African top order after India won the toss and opted to bowl first in the game. Chahar drew the first blood for India by removing South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma on a duck before Arshdeep ran riot in his very first over of the match. Making full use of the swing on offer, Arshdeep made the South African batters dance to his tunes as he ended up picking three wickets in his very first over, including two wickets of two straight deliveries. He started by cleaning up Quinton de Kock on 1 off 4 balls before Rille Rossouw was caught behind by Rishabh Pant on the 5th delivery of the second over. Arshdeep then clean bowled David Miller on the final ball of the second over to take three wickets in his very first over of the match. He was on a hat-trick when he returned to bowl his second over but ended up missing out on the feat by a whisker. The dominance of Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar in the first 15 balls. pic.twitter.com/tAMXzueynT — Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) September 28, 2022 × Also Read: Virat Kohli only 35 runs away from leapfrogging Rohit Sharma in elite list After a brilliant second over from Arshdeep, Chahar returned to bowl the third and piled more misery on South Africa by dismissing young Tristan Stubbs cheaply on a duck. Arshdeep and Chahar joined forces to reduce the visitors to 9/5 inside just 15 deliveries to ensure India didn't miss Bumrah with the new ball. It was a stunning start from the Indian pacers and the likes of Axar Patel and Harshal Patel ensured they kept the pressure on South Africa after the end of Powerplay. Harshal trapped Aiden Markram lbw to break the 33-run stand for the third wicket between him and Wayne Parnell before Axar joined the party by getting rid of Parnell on 24. Also Read: Indian cricketer Taniya Bhatia slams London hotel for no response after robbery complaint After their superb start, India will be hoping to bundle out South Africa on a low-key total and chase it down comfortably to get off to a winning start in the three-match series. The three-match rubber against the Proteas is India's final T20I assignment ahead of the T20 World Cup next month.

WATCH: Arshdeep Singh breathes fire, takes 3 wickets in a single over to rattle South Africa in 1st T20I

Sanju Samson's omission from India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, made a lot of noise. He was not even named in the reserves, which many felt was a harsh call due to&nbsp;his free-flowing approach with the bat. After his omission, BCCI named him as the captain for India A's three ODIs versus New Zealand at home.

After leading India A to a 3-0 whitewash over the Kiwis, it seems like a big promotion is on the cards for Samson. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper is likely to be named as India's vice-captain for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus South Africa at home, starting on October 6. 
 
As per ANI, Samson is in-line to be Shikhar Dhawan's deputy for the Proteas ODIs. After Rohit Sharma-led India's three T20Is versus Temba Bavuma &amp; Co., a second-string&nbsp;Indian side -- under Dhawan's captaincy (all but confirmed)&nbsp;-- will host three 50-over games versus South Africa whereas the T20 WC-bound players will leave for Australia for the upcoming showpiece event Down Under.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-south-africa-1st-t20i-ist-time-and-streaming-details-520431">Ind vs SA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I - IST time and streaming details</a>

With the likes of Rohit, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. being out of action from the three ODIs, Samson has emerged as a strong contender to join the leadership group for the SA ODIs. Apart from him, Shubman Gill is another candidate who can act as Dhawan's deputy.&nbsp;

The BCCI selection committee is expected to announce India's second-stringed squad sooner than later. Talking about Samson, the swashbuckling right-hander has played only seven ODIs for Team India. He was part of India's white-ball tour of West Indies but wasn't part of the Rohit-led Men in Blue's Asia Cup campaign and the Australia T20Is at home. Samson has led Rajasthan's IPL franchise in two full editions and guided them to their first-ever final during IPL 2022, where they lost to eventual winners Gujarat Titans (GT).

Sanju Samson's omission from India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, made a lot of noise. He was not even named in the reserves, which many felt was a harsh call due to his free-flowing approach with the bat.

Sanju Samson's omission from India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, in Australia, made a lot of noise. He was not even named in the reserves, which many felt was a harsh call due to his free-flowing approach with the bat. After his omission, BCCI named him as the captain for India A's three ODIs versus New Zealand at home. After leading India A to a 3-0 whitewash over the Kiwis, it seems like a big promotion is on the cards for Samson. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper is likely to be named as India's vice-captain for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus South Africa at home, starting on October 6. As per ANI, Samson is in-line to be Shikhar Dhawan's deputy for the Proteas ODIs. After Rohit Sharma-led India's three T20Is versus Temba Bavuma & Co., a second-string Indian side -- under Dhawan's captaincy (all but confirmed) -- will host three 50-over games versus South Africa whereas the T20 WC-bound players will leave for Australia for the upcoming showpiece event Down Under. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I - IST time and streaming details With the likes of Rohit, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. being out of action from the three ODIs, Samson has emerged as a strong contender to join the leadership group for the SA ODIs. Apart from him, Shubman Gill is another candidate who can act as Dhawan's deputy. The BCCI selection committee is expected to announce India's second-stringed squad sooner than later. Talking about Samson, the swashbuckling right-hander has played only seven ODIs for Team India. He was part of India's white-ball tour of West Indies but wasn't part of the Rohit-led Men in Blue's Asia Cup campaign and the Australia T20Is at home. Samson has led Rajasthan's IPL franchise in two full editions and guided them to their first-ever final during IPL 2022, where they lost to eventual winners Gujarat Titans (GT).

Promotion on cards? Sanju Samson likely to be named India vice-captain for ODIs vs South Africa - Report