South Africa&#39;s president-in-waiting Cyril Ramaphosa admitted Sunday to &quot;disunity and discord&quot; in the ruling ANC party as the deadlocked effort to oust scandal-tainted President Jacob Zuma ground on.

Ramaphosa, 65, said he wanted to replace &quot;a period of difficulty, disunity and discord&quot; with &quot;a new beginning&quot; for the party, and he vowed to tackle the corruption that has tarnished Zuma`s government.

&quot;We know you want this matter to be finalised,&quot; he said to rapturous cheers at a rally of party faithful in Cape Town.

With the 75-year-old Zuma refusing a February 4 request to resign by senior party officials, the African National Congress&#39;s top decision-making committee will meet on Monday.

The committee could recall the president from office, though he would be under no constitutional obligation to obey the order.

&quot;We know you want closure -- we will be doing so keeping our eyes on what is in the interests of all our people,&quot; he said to loud applause.

&quot;As you have all heard, the National Executive Committee of the ANC will be meeting tomorrow... and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that.&quot;

Several thousand ANC supporters wearing the party`s signature yellow, green and black colours -- many also sporting images of Ramaphosa on their shirts -- attended the rally at Cape Town`s symbolic Grand Parade square.

Nomaza Nkukwana, a 54-year-old unemployed woman from nearby Driftsands, said: &quot;We liked the speech and I liked the language he was using.&quot;

&quot;Ramaphosa must come -- then we`ll be having a real president.&quot; 
It was in the same vast square in front of City Hall that on February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela spoke to euphoric crowds hours after his release from prison.

That was his first major speech as a free man and a key moment in South Africa`s modern rebirth as white-minority apartheid rule crumbled.

Holding the microphone for Mandela that day was a young Ramaphosa, then a trade union leader.

Zuma`s presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger in sharp contrast to the mood of national optimism that swept South Africa after Mandela`s release.

The stalemate over Zuma`s departure has left Africa`s most developed economy in limbo, with a series of public events cancelled last week including Thursday`s State of the Nation address to parliament.Zuma`s hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost out to Ramaphosa in a vote for new party leader.

Sunday`s rally was part of ANC celebrations marking 100 years since Mandela`s birth -- as well as efforts by Ramaphosa to repair the party`s reputation ahead of next year`s general election.

&quot;We have arrived at a moment in the history of our country where we can relive that moment when Nelson Mandela was released... we have a new mood right across the country, we can capture that mood and move forward,&quot; Ramaphosa said.

Local media reported that Zuma`s potentially ruinous legal fees from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal charges were a key sticking point in the negotiations.

One case relates to 783 payments he allegedly received linked to an arms deal before he came to power.

He is also reportedly seeking legal protection for his family and other associates who have been involved in controversial deals. 
&quot;Even if the ANC meeting on Monday decides Zuma needs to step down, he can still refuse because they have no legal authority,&quot; Mcebisi Ndletyana, a politics professor at the University of Johannesburg, told AFP.

&quot;He is not willing to step down voluntarily. They need to close this thing early this week.&quot;

Opposition parties are calling for a parliamentary vote of no-confidence within days.The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the finance minister`s budget speech set for February 21.

Under Zuma, who has not spoken since being asked to resign, the ANC suffered its worst electoral setback since coming to power with Mandela at the helm in 1994, winning less than 54 percent of the vote in local elections in 2016.

With the 75-year-old Zuma refusing a February 4 request to resign by senior party officials, the African National Congress's top decision-making committee will meet on Monday

South Africa's president-in-waiting Cyril Ramaphosa admitted Sunday to "disunity and discord" in the ruling ANC party as the deadlocked effort to oust scandal-tainted President Jacob Zuma ground on. Ramaphosa, 65, said he wanted to replace "a period of difficulty, disunity and discord" with "a new beginning" for the party, and he vowed to tackle the corruption that has tarnished Zuma`s government. "We know you want this matter to be finalised," he said to rapturous cheers at a rally of party faithful in Cape Town. With the 75-year-old Zuma refusing a February 4 request to resign by senior party officials, the African National Congress's top decision-making committee will meet on Monday. The committee could recall the president from office, though he would be under no constitutional obligation to obey the order. "We know you want closure -- we will be doing so keeping our eyes on what is in the interests of all our people," he said to loud applause. "As you have all heard, the National Executive Committee of the ANC will be meeting tomorrow... and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that." Several thousand ANC supporters wearing the party`s signature yellow, green and black colours -- many also sporting images of Ramaphosa on their shirts -- attended the rally at Cape Town`s symbolic Grand Parade square. Nomaza Nkukwana, a 54-year-old unemployed woman from nearby Driftsands, said: "We liked the speech and I liked the language he was using." "Ramaphosa must come -- then we`ll be having a real president." It was in the same vast square in front of City Hall that on February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela spoke to euphoric crowds hours after his release from prison. That was his first major speech as a free man and a key moment in South Africa`s modern rebirth as white-minority apartheid rule crumbled. Holding the microphone for Mandela that day was a young Ramaphosa, then a trade union leader. Zuma`s presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger in sharp contrast to the mood of national optimism that swept South Africa after Mandela`s release. The stalemate over Zuma`s departure has left Africa`s most developed economy in limbo, with a series of public events cancelled last week including Thursday`s State of the Nation address to parliament.Zuma`s hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost out to Ramaphosa in a vote for new party leader. Sunday`s rally was part of ANC celebrations marking 100 years since Mandela`s birth -- as well as efforts by Ramaphosa to repair the party`s reputation ahead of next year`s general election. "We have arrived at a moment in the history of our country where we can relive that moment when Nelson Mandela was released... we have a new mood right across the country, we can capture that mood and move forward," Ramaphosa said. Local media reported that Zuma`s potentially ruinous legal fees from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal charges were a key sticking point in the negotiations. One case relates to 783 payments he allegedly received linked to an arms deal before he came to power. He is also reportedly seeking legal protection for his family and other associates who have been involved in controversial deals. "Even if the ANC meeting on Monday decides Zuma needs to step down, he can still refuse because they have no legal authority," Mcebisi Ndletyana, a politics professor at the University of Johannesburg, told AFP. "He is not willing to step down voluntarily. They need to close this thing early this week." Opposition parties are calling for a parliamentary vote of no-confidence within days.The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the finance minister`s budget speech set for February 21. Under Zuma, who has not spoken since being asked to resign, the ANC suffered its worst electoral setback since coming to power with Mandela at the helm in 1994, winning less than 54 percent of the vote in local elections in 2016.

South Africa's Ramaphosa admits 'disunity' as Zuma fights exit

The fourth ODI between India and South Africa is set to start and &#39;Men in blue&#39; will face &#39;Men in pink&#39; at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg.

India is already leading the six-match series by 3-0 with and will enter the 4th ODI with a high.

The Spin-twins are doing exceptionally well for the team. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have been a key element for India&#39;s comfortable victories.

The depth in the batting order has provided India with extra convincing support.

Though opener Rohit Sharma is struggling to regain his form as he failed to score in the previous games.

In-form skipper Virat Kohli has been magnificent. He slammed two centuries in the previous three games and had inspired the team to much-needed victories.

On the other hand, South Africa, arguably dominant unit at home strived hard to perform but the injuries had overshadowed the team as AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out.

But now AB de Villiers is set to return in the 4th ODI that will definitely bolster South African prospects a bit.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-can-the-return-of-ab-de-villiers-turn-the-tide-for-south-africa-32395">Also read:&nbsp;Opinion: Can the return of AB de Villiers turn the tide for South Africa?</a>

The Proteas will play in the pink jersey as they have pledged to create awareness for breast cancer.

If we talk about the pink jersey, out of 5 ODI games South Africa&nbsp;have not lost a single game&nbsp;yet.

Especially AB de Villiers&rsquo;s record in pink ODIs is remarkable. In the five games, he has scored 450 runs at an average of 112.5.

If we talk about the weather, some showers are expected in the morning, but it won&#39;t hamper the game as the match is set to start at 4:30.

Squad (TBC):

India:

Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

South Africa:

Aiden Markram (capt), Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada/Lungi Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir.

&nbsp;

The fourth ODI between India and South Africa is set to start at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg, AB de Villiers will return to the team

The fourth ODI between India and South Africa is set to start and 'Men in blue' will face 'Men in pink' at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. India is already leading the six-match series by 3-0 with and will enter the 4th ODI with a high. The Spin-twins are doing exceptionally well for the team. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have been a key element for India's comfortable victories. The depth in the batting order has provided India with extra convincing support. Though opener Rohit Sharma is struggling to regain his form as he failed to score in the previous games. In-form skipper Virat Kohli has been magnificent. He slammed two centuries in the previous three games and had inspired the team to much-needed victories. On the other hand, South Africa, arguably dominant unit at home strived hard to perform but the injuries had overshadowed the team as AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Quinton de Kock were ruled out. But now AB de Villiers is set to return in the 4th ODI that will definitely bolster South African prospects a bit. Also read: Opinion: Can the return of AB de Villiers turn the tide for South Africa? The Proteas will play in the pink jersey as they have pledged to create awareness for breast cancer. If we talk about the pink jersey, out of 5 ODI games South Africa have not lost a single game yet. Especially AB de Villiers’s record in pink ODIs is remarkable. In the five games, he has scored 450 runs at an average of 112.5. If we talk about the weather, some showers are expected in the morning, but it won't hamper the game as the match is set to start at 4:30. Squad (TBC): India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli (capt), Ajinkya Rahane, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni (wk), Kedar Jadhav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah. South Africa: Aiden Markram (capt), Hashim Amla, JP Duminy, AB de Villiers, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada/Lungi Ngidi, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir.

4th ODI: 'Men in blue' vs 'men in pink'

The scoreline is rather hard to believe at present. The visiting Indian side leading 3-0 in the six-match ODI series against an arguably dominant South African unit at home.

This was supposed to be the mother of all ODI battles. The clash between the No. 1 and No. 2 ODI sides in the world. The greatest heavyweights of the limited overs format having a go at each other and having an epic contest for the crowds to savour. That wasn&rsquo;t to be, however.&nbsp;

South Africa looks like a pale shadow of what they used to be once. Their batting has been shambolic and bowling has been wayward. And without the services of star batsmen like AB de Villiers and Faf Du Plessis, South Africa has simply not been able to maintain its standards.

Old issues against wrist spin have resurfaced and there has been a real lack of application from the players in fighting it out. This raises serious questions about the future of this South African ODI outfit and makes one wonder how well they are prepared for their &lsquo;Mission 2019&rsquo;.

As India take on South Africa in the fourth ODI at the Wanderers, the hosts would be hoping for a turnaround in their fortunes. The return of star batsman AB de Villiers after an injury layoff will certainly bolster their prospects a bit.

After all, he is their greatest match-winner and averages 100.85 from 11 matches at this ground. This is also a Pink ODI and the South Africans would be seen donning the pink jersey in an ODI match again. Ever since this tradition was started five years ago, South Africa has been undefeatable in pink.

They have played five ODIs in pink and have not lost a single game as yet. History, however, would be of little help if the hosts continue to play they have been over the last few days.&nbsp;

For India, despite their winning momentum, there are causes of concern. Rohit Sharma seems to have fallen into his inconsistency pattern again and the lower middle-order looks fragile. Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav have to do more so that the burden on Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan is reduced a bit.

India&rsquo;s bowlers, though, have been absolutely brilliant and Kohli would need them to continue in the same vein. The seamers have not allowed the batsmen to get away to rollicking starts and then the wrist spinners - Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav &ndash; have taken over.

The two have spun such a vicious web over the South African batsmen that they do not how to untangle themselves out of it. Perhaps with De Villiers coming back, they will finally have some relief.

There is no denying, however, that despite the return of AB de Villiers, India start as favourites in the fourth ODI. They have displayed a brand of aggressive and professional cricket and it will not be surprising if they go on to subdue South Africa again and get a series-clinching win here.

&nbsp;

Without the services of star batsmen like AB de Villiers, South Africa has not been able to maintain its standards and return of star batsman AB de Villiers will certainly bolster their prospects a bit

The scoreline is rather hard to believe at present. The visiting Indian side leading 3-0 in the six-match ODI series against an arguably dominant South African unit at home. This was supposed to be the mother of all ODI battles. The clash between the No. 1 and No. 2 ODI sides in the world. The greatest heavyweights of the limited overs format having a go at each other and having an epic contest for the crowds to savour. That wasn’t to be, however. South Africa looks like a pale shadow of what they used to be once. Their batting has been shambolic and bowling has been wayward. And without the services of star batsmen like AB de Villiers and Faf Du Plessis, South Africa has simply not been able to maintain its standards. Old issues against wrist spin have resurfaced and there has been a real lack of application from the players in fighting it out. This raises serious questions about the future of this South African ODI outfit and makes one wonder how well they are prepared for their ‘Mission 2019’. As India take on South Africa in the fourth ODI at the Wanderers, the hosts would be hoping for a turnaround in their fortunes. The return of star batsman AB de Villiers after an injury layoff will certainly bolster their prospects a bit. After all, he is their greatest match-winner and averages 100.85 from 11 matches at this ground. This is also a Pink ODI and the South Africans would be seen donning the pink jersey in an ODI match again. Ever since this tradition was started five years ago, South Africa has been undefeatable in pink. They have played five ODIs in pink and have not lost a single game as yet. History, however, would be of little help if the hosts continue to play they have been over the last few days. For India, despite their winning momentum, there are causes of concern. Rohit Sharma seems to have fallen into his inconsistency pattern again and the lower middle-order looks fragile. Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav have to do more so that the burden on Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan is reduced a bit. India’s bowlers, though, have been absolutely brilliant and Kohli would need them to continue in the same vein. The seamers have not allowed the batsmen to get away to rollicking starts and then the wrist spinners - Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav – have taken over. The two have spun such a vicious web over the South African batsmen that they do not how to untangle themselves out of it. Perhaps with De Villiers coming back, they will finally have some relief. There is no denying, however, that despite the return of AB de Villiers, India start as favourites in the fourth ODI. They have displayed a brand of aggressive and professional cricket and it will not be surprising if they go on to subdue South Africa again and get a series-clinching win here.

Opinion: Can the return of AB de Villiers turn the tide for South Africa?

India vs South Africa live up to its billing -&nbsp; unpredictable and exciting. Everything in the last four days from the pitch, bowling and Pandya&#39;s batting had all the ingredients of a delicious curry, just that it was enjoyed more by the hosts than the visitors.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-what-ails-indian-cricket-team-pace-bowling-28969">It was a match full of drama from the first morning</a> when South Africa crashed to 12 for three losing Elgar, Markram and Amla cheaply after choosing to bat on a seaming pitch but they came back magnificently and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-135-all-out-south-africa-wins-1st-test-by-72-runs-28890">won the game. Now they lead the series 1-0.</a>

India was definitely outplayed by the South Africans. Though Indian bowlers started the game quite well but that was not enough. Even after creating pressure on the first half of Day 1, Indian pacers gave away 50-60 extra runs. A fact acknowledged by Bhunveshwar Kumar later.

Counter-attacking batting by De Villiers and Du Plessis enabled South Africa to set up a competitive 286 in their first innings.

The first innings for India was extremely disappointing after the batsmen fell without a fight, except India&#39;s new all-rounder Hardik Pandya who stood tall amid the ruins.

Pandya&#39;s invaluable 93 runs with 14 hits to the boundary and one six - it was was a stand-out performance. However, Vernon Philander, Dale Steyn,&nbsp; Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada destroyed India&#39;s pride.

In the second innings too, Indian bowlers did their bit by holding the Proteas to 130 ensuring India had a target of 208 but this time too the batters disappointed and India surrendered the match, losing by 72 runs.

Kohli&#39;s decision of selecting Rohit Sharma ahead of Ajinkya Rahane remains questionable.

No doubt Rohit&#39;s performance in ODI and other limited over format is outstanding, but in South Africa, conditions are totally different where the pitch offers swing and bowlers hold sway.

Rohit has played 27 innings in 14 matches on foreign soil and has scored just 653 runs at an average of 25.12, on the other hand, in the matches played in India, his average is a stupendous 65.17.

Clearly, Rohit along with Virat need to come to the party if India wants to hit back in the next Test at Centurion in Gauteng next week.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

&nbsp;

Rohit has played 27 innings in 14 matches on foreign soil and has scored just 653 runs at an average of 25.12

India vs South Africa live up to its billing - unpredictable and exciting. Everything in the last four days from the pitch, bowling and Pandya's batting had all the ingredients of a delicious curry, just that it was enjoyed more by the hosts than the visitors. It was a match full of drama from the first morning when South Africa crashed to 12 for three losing Elgar, Markram and Amla cheaply after choosing to bat on a seaming pitch but they came back magnificently and won the game. Now they lead the series 1-0. India was definitely outplayed by the South Africans. Though Indian bowlers started the game quite well but that was not enough. Even after creating pressure on the first half of Day 1, Indian pacers gave away 50-60 extra runs. A fact acknowledged by Bhunveshwar Kumar later. Counter-attacking batting by De Villiers and Du Plessis enabled South Africa to set up a competitive 286 in their first innings. The first innings for India was extremely disappointing after the batsmen fell without a fight, except India's new all-rounder Hardik Pandya who stood tall amid the ruins. Pandya's invaluable 93 runs with 14 hits to the boundary and one six - it was was a stand-out performance. However, Vernon Philander, Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada destroyed India's pride. In the second innings too, Indian bowlers did their bit by holding the Proteas to 130 ensuring India had a target of 208 but this time too the batters disappointed and India surrendered the match, losing by 72 runs. Kohli's decision of selecting Rohit Sharma ahead of Ajinkya Rahane remains questionable. No doubt Rohit's performance in ODI and other limited over format is outstanding, but in South Africa, conditions are totally different where the pitch offers swing and bowlers hold sway. Rohit has played 27 innings in 14 matches on foreign soil and has scored just 653 runs at an average of 25.12, on the other hand, in the matches played in India, his average is a stupendous 65.17. Clearly, Rohit along with Virat need to come to the party if India wants to hit back in the next Test at Centurion in Gauteng next week. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL).

Opinion: Rohit Sharma is rockstar at home, flop star abroad

Efforts by South Africa&#39;s ruling African National Congress (ANC) to unseat President Jacob Zuma tilted towards the end game on Wednesday as the speaker of parliament said party leader Cyril Ramaphosa would outline Zuma&#39;s fate imminently.

Zuma, in power since 2009, has been in a weakened position since Deputy President Ramaphosa replaced him as ANC leader in December.

The ANC had scheduled an urgent meeting of its national executive on Wednesday evening to discuss Zuma&#39;s future but postponed it late on Tuesday after &quot;constructive&quot; talks between Zuma and Ramaphosa.

The delay increased speculation that a deal for Zuma to resign had been ironed out. Times Live, an online news service, quoted sources as saying Zuma would resign as soon as a list of preconditions had been finalised.

Speaker Baleka Mbete suggested South Africans would learn of Zuma&#39;s fate within hours.

&quot;In this day there will be some progress which the president of the ANC will be ready to come back to us about,&quot; she told the eNCA television channel.

Zuma&#39;s spokesman declined to comment.

Zuma engineered the ouster of former president Thabo Mbeki in 2008 shortly after taking over the helm of the ANC. He has not said whether he will resign voluntarily before his second term as president ends next year.

The 75-year-old has been South Africa&#39;s most controversial president since the end of white-minority rule in 1994, overseeing a tumultuous nine years marked by economic decline and numerous allegations of corruption.

Some within the ANC and the opposition say the Gupta family, friends of Zuma, have used their links with the president to influence cabinet appointments and win state tenders.

The Guptas and Zuma have denied any wrongdoing but the allegations are the focus of a judicial enquiry.

Speaker Baleka Mbete suggested South Africans would learn of Zuma's fate within hours.

Efforts by South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) to unseat President Jacob Zuma tilted towards the end game on Wednesday as the speaker of parliament said party leader Cyril Ramaphosa would outline Zuma's fate imminently. Zuma, in power since 2009, has been in a weakened position since Deputy President Ramaphosa replaced him as ANC leader in December. The ANC had scheduled an urgent meeting of its national executive on Wednesday evening to discuss Zuma's future but postponed it late on Tuesday after "constructive" talks between Zuma and Ramaphosa. The delay increased speculation that a deal for Zuma to resign had been ironed out. Times Live, an online news service, quoted sources as saying Zuma would resign as soon as a list of preconditions had been finalised. Speaker Baleka Mbete suggested South Africans would learn of Zuma's fate within hours. "In this day there will be some progress which the president of the ANC will be ready to come back to us about," she told the eNCA television channel. Zuma's spokesman declined to comment. Zuma engineered the ouster of former president Thabo Mbeki in 2008 shortly after taking over the helm of the ANC. He has not said whether he will resign voluntarily before his second term as president ends next year. The 75-year-old has been South Africa's most controversial president since the end of white-minority rule in 1994, overseeing a tumultuous nine years marked by economic decline and numerous allegations of corruption. Some within the ANC and the opposition say the Gupta family, friends of Zuma, have used their links with the president to influence cabinet appointments and win state tenders. The Guptas and Zuma have denied any wrongdoing but the allegations are the focus of a judicial enquiry.

End-game looms for South Africa's President Jacob Zuma

Virat Kohli&#39;s masterclass and a pouncing pack of wrist-spinners ensured a 124-run win for India in the third ODI here, giving the visitors an unassailable 3-0 lead and taking them one step closer to a maiden series triumph in South Africa.

Kohli reaffirmed his status as an ODI great with an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/unstoppable-kohli-hits-34th-odi-ton-takes-india-to-3036-32131" target="_blank">unbeaten 160 off 159 balls</a> on a challenging surface, propelling India to 303 for six.

It was the 34th ODI hundred for the Indian captain, who is now 15 shy of Sachin Tendulkar&#39;s mark of 49.

Kohli has been simply unstoppable in the 50-over format of late and today&#39;s match-winning effort was his fourth three-figure score in the last six ODIs. It was also his second hundred of the series and third of the tour.

While most Indian batsmen struggled after South Africa opted to bowl, Kohli made batting look easy. Shikhar Dhawan too stood out with a fluent 76 off 63 balls.

South Africa started the chase on a promising note with captain Aiden Markram (32) and JP Duminy (51) sharing a 78-run stand for the second wicket.

But most of their runs came against the pacers and when Indian spinners got into the act, it was a familiar story as South Africa surrendered to Yuzvendra Chahal (4/46) and Kuldeep Yadav (4/23) to end way behind at 170 all out in 40 overs.

The South African batsmen failed to pick India&#39;s wily wrist-spinners, as was the case in the first two ODIs.

The slide began with the fall of Markram, who was stumped by MS Dhoni after getting beaten by a flighted delivery from Yadav.

It happened to be Dhoni&#39;s 400th dismissal in ODIs as he became only the fourth wicket-keeper to reach that milestone in ODIs.

Not reading the spinners led to South African batsmen being defensive which pushed the run-rate up. From a healthy 79 for one in the 17th over, the hosts were reduced to 129 for five in the 33rd over, ending all their hopes of a recovery.

Earlier, Kohli scored the highest individual score by an Indian batsman against South Africa in South Africa, going past Sourav Ganguly?s 127 at Johannesburg in 2001. It was also Kohli?s second-highest ODI score after 183 against Pakistan in 2012.

Such was the nature of his innings that he scored only 60 runs through boundaries while he had to run hard for the remaining 100. In total, he collected 12 fours and two sixes.

He also became the first Indian batsman to score a hundred against South Africa at Newlands. Only Ganguly previously had an ODI century at this ground, but that came against Kenya in March 2003. 
 
Records kept tumbling as his innings progressed. He also became the Indian ODI captain with most hundreds to his name.

He went past Ganguly again, who has 11 centuries in 142 innings. Kohli now boasts of 12 hundreds as skipper but in only 43 innings.

Kohli, with 318 runs in this series so far, now also has the most runs for a visiting batsman in a bilateral ODI series against South Africa in South Africa. Ricky Ponting, with 283 runs in 2001-02, was the previous best.

In terms of balls faced, it was the joint-slowest hundred for Kohli, after he faced 119 balls against Pakistan at Adelaide in 2015. But in doing so, Kohli put on 140 runs with Dhawan for the second wicket.

The Proteas made three changes to their playing eleven after the Centurion defeat. Lungi Ngidi and Heinrich Klaasen were handed their ODI debuts and came in for Morne Morkel and injured Quinton de Kock, respectively.

Andile Phehlukwayo was included ahead of Tabraiz Shamsi as the hosts played only full-time spinner. India fielded an unchanged side again.

Rohit Sharma (0) continued his poor run in this ODI series and was caught behind off the sixth ball he faced. The three-time ODI double-centurion now averages 12.10 in 10 innings on South African soil and has an ODI high score of only 23.

Kohli (on 0*) survived an early lbw shout off Kagiso Rabada (1-54) in the third over. He immediately asked for DRS review, which showed an inside edge and the decision was overturned.

Dhawan and Kohli then came together, and piled on the runs, almost continuing from where they had left off in the previous match.

Momentarily though, India?s run-rate dipped below 5/over as Chris Morris (1-45) exerted some control over proceedings. In the meantime, Dhawan scored his 25th ODI half-century off 42 balls and took his team past 100 in the 18th over.

Dhawan accelerated after reaching his mark, and scored 26 runs off next 21 balls he faced. Part of the reason had to do with Imran Tahir?s (1-52) inclusion into the attack as Dhawan-Kohli pairing milked his bowling for runs.

JP Duminy (2-60) then provided the breakthrough. In fact, it was stand-in skipper Markram who did all the hard work and took a stunning diving catch to dismiss Dhawan who had danced down to the part-timer.

South Africa then triggered a mini-collapse in the middle order as India lost three wickets for 48 runs.

MS Dhoni (10) then stemmed the down-curve and added 40 runs with Kohli.

Kedar Jadhav (1) played a nothing shot and edged behind off Phehlukwayo (1-42) as India were reduced to 236 for six in the 43rd over.

The skipper then found a stable partner in Bhuvneshwar Kumar (16 not out) and the duo added 63 runs off only 43 balls for the seventh wicket.&nbsp;

Kohli hit his 34th ODI hundred; he is now 15 shy of Sachin Tendulkar's 49

Virat Kohli's masterclass and a pouncing pack of wrist-spinners ensured a 124-run win for India in the third ODI here, giving the visitors an unassailable 3-0 lead and taking them one step closer to a maiden series triumph in South Africa. Kohli reaffirmed his status as an ODI great with an unbeaten 160 off 159 balls on a challenging surface, propelling India to 303 for six. It was the 34th ODI hundred for the Indian captain, who is now 15 shy of Sachin Tendulkar's mark of 49. Kohli has been simply unstoppable in the 50-over format of late and today's match-winning effort was his fourth three-figure score in the last six ODIs. It was also his second hundred of the series and third of the tour. While most Indian batsmen struggled after South Africa opted to bowl, Kohli made batting look easy. Shikhar Dhawan too stood out with a fluent 76 off 63 balls. South Africa started the chase on a promising note with captain Aiden Markram (32) and JP Duminy (51) sharing a 78-run stand for the second wicket. But most of their runs came against the pacers and when Indian spinners got into the act, it was a familiar story as South Africa surrendered to Yuzvendra Chahal (4/46) and Kuldeep Yadav (4/23) to end way behind at 170 all out in 40 overs. The South African batsmen failed to pick India's wily wrist-spinners, as was the case in the first two ODIs. The slide began with the fall of Markram, who was stumped by MS Dhoni after getting beaten by a flighted delivery from Yadav. It happened to be Dhoni's 400th dismissal in ODIs as he became only the fourth wicket-keeper to reach that milestone in ODIs. Not reading the spinners led to South African batsmen being defensive which pushed the run-rate up. From a healthy 79 for one in the 17th over, the hosts were reduced to 129 for five in the 33rd over, ending all their hopes of a recovery. Earlier, Kohli scored the highest individual score by an Indian batsman against South Africa in South Africa, going past Sourav Ganguly?s 127 at Johannesburg in 2001. It was also Kohli?s second-highest ODI score after 183 against Pakistan in 2012. Such was the nature of his innings that he scored only 60 runs through boundaries while he had to run hard for the remaining 100. In total, he collected 12 fours and two sixes. He also became the first Indian batsman to score a hundred against South Africa at Newlands. Only Ganguly previously had an ODI century at this ground, but that came against Kenya in March 2003. Records kept tumbling as his innings progressed. He also became the Indian ODI captain with most hundreds to his name. He went past Ganguly again, who has 11 centuries in 142 innings. Kohli now boasts of 12 hundreds as skipper but in only 43 innings. Kohli, with 318 runs in this series so far, now also has the most runs for a visiting batsman in a bilateral ODI series against South Africa in South Africa. Ricky Ponting, with 283 runs in 2001-02, was the previous best. In terms of balls faced, it was the joint-slowest hundred for Kohli, after he faced 119 balls against Pakistan at Adelaide in 2015. But in doing so, Kohli put on 140 runs with Dhawan for the second wicket. The Proteas made three changes to their playing eleven after the Centurion defeat. Lungi Ngidi and Heinrich Klaasen were handed their ODI debuts and came in for Morne Morkel and injured Quinton de Kock, respectively. Andile Phehlukwayo was included ahead of Tabraiz Shamsi as the hosts played only full-time spinner. India fielded an unchanged side again. Rohit Sharma (0) continued his poor run in this ODI series and was caught behind off the sixth ball he faced. The three-time ODI double-centurion now averages 12.10 in 10 innings on South African soil and has an ODI high score of only 23. Kohli (on 0*) survived an early lbw shout off Kagiso Rabada (1-54) in the third over. He immediately asked for DRS review, which showed an inside edge and the decision was overturned. Dhawan and Kohli then came together, and piled on the runs, almost continuing from where they had left off in the previous match. Momentarily though, India?s run-rate dipped below 5/over as Chris Morris (1-45) exerted some control over proceedings. In the meantime, Dhawan scored his 25th ODI half-century off 42 balls and took his team past 100 in the 18th over. Dhawan accelerated after reaching his mark, and scored 26 runs off next 21 balls he faced. Part of the reason had to do with Imran Tahir?s (1-52) inclusion into the attack as Dhawan-Kohli pairing milked his bowling for runs. JP Duminy (2-60) then provided the breakthrough. In fact, it was stand-in skipper Markram who did all the hard work and took a stunning diving catch to dismiss Dhawan who had danced down to the part-timer. South Africa then triggered a mini-collapse in the middle order as India lost three wickets for 48 runs. MS Dhoni (10) then stemmed the down-curve and added 40 runs with Kohli. Kedar Jadhav (1) played a nothing shot and edged behind off Phehlukwayo (1-42) as India were reduced to 236 for six in the 43rd over. The skipper then found a stable partner in Bhuvneshwar Kumar (16 not out) and the duo added 63 runs off only 43 balls for the seventh wicket.

3rd ODI: India beat South Africa by 124 runs, take unassailable 3-0 lead

Indian women&#39;s cricket team thrashed South Africa by 178 runs in the second ODI&nbsp;at Diamond Oval, Kimberley on Wednesday.

Smriti Mandhana slammed a magnificent ton acored 135 runs and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jhulan-goswami-becomes-first-female-cricketer-to-take-200-odi-wickets-32129">Julan Goswami made a&nbsp;record</a> and became first female cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets.

Former cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar wished the team on Twitter.

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What a match this is turning out to be!! Stellar performance by <a href="https://twitter.com/mandhana_smriti?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mandhana_smriti</a> once again. A big congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JhulanGoswami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JhulanGoswami</a> on her 200th ODI wicket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jhulan200?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jhulan200</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAWvINDW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAWvINDW</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qz8potomrj">pic.twitter.com/Qz8potomrj</a>
&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/961223556435730432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, which is part of the ICC Women&#39;s Championship.

Mandhana started from where she left in the first game and smashed 135 off just 129 balls to form the base for India&#39;s 302 for three.

She hit 14 boundaries and a six en route to her century. Incidentally, this is Mandhana&#39;s second ODI century against South Africa.

Mandhana had earlier made a 98-ball 84 in India&#39;s 88-run win over South Africa in the first ODI.

Besides Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur (55 not out) and Veda Krishnamurthy (51 not out) contributed to India&#39;s total.

Opener Punam Raut (20) and skipper Mithali Raj (20) also got starts but failed to prolong their stay at the crease.

All the South Africa bowlers looked helpless in front of the Indian batswomen as they could just manage to take three wickets with Sune Luus registering best figures of one for 31.

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2nd ODI : India won by 178 runs. <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Raj03?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@M_Raj03</a> -led India take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. Pic courtesy- CSA <a href="https://t.co/1uDpeLyXA8">pic.twitter.com/1uDpeLyXA8</a>
&mdash; BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen/status/961248434589122560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Just like the first ODI, Indian bowlers too were clinical in their approach, bowling out South Africa for just 124 runs in 30.5 overs to register yet another massive win.

Leg-spinner Poonam Yadav excelled with the ball for India with figures of four for 24, while left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2/14) and offie Deepti Sharma (2/34) shared four victims between them.

India&#39;s veteran pacer Jhulan Goswami also added another feather to her illustrious cap today by becoming the first female cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets.

The 35-year-old Goswami, playing her 166th ODI, achieved the feat when she dismissed opener Laura Wolvaardt for her 200th scalp.

South Africa&#39;s struggle against the Indian attack can be gauged from the fact that only two of their batswomen could manage double-digit scores.

Opener Lizelle Lee held the fort single-handedly from one end with a 75-ball 73 but she did not get the desired support from her teammates.

The only other South African batswoman to have reached double-digit score was Marizanne Kapp, who remained unbeaten on 17.

&nbsp;

Smriti Mandhana slammed a century (135 runs ) and Julan Goswami became first female cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets

Indian women's cricket team thrashed South Africa by 178 runs in the second ODI at Diamond Oval, Kimberley on Wednesday. Smriti Mandhana slammed a magnificent ton acored 135 runs and Julan Goswami made a record and became first female cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets. Former cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar wished the team on Twitter. What a match this is turning out to be!! Stellar performance by @mandhana_smriti once again. A big congratulations to #JhulanGoswami on her 200th ODI wicket. #Jhulan200 #SAWvINDW pic.twitter.com/Qz8potomrj — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 7, 2018 × India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, which is part of the ICC Women's Championship. Mandhana started from where she left in the first game and smashed 135 off just 129 balls to form the base for India's 302 for three. She hit 14 boundaries and a six en route to her century. Incidentally, this is Mandhana's second ODI century against South Africa. Mandhana had earlier made a 98-ball 84 in India's 88-run win over South Africa in the first ODI. Besides Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur (55 not out) and Veda Krishnamurthy (51 not out) contributed to India's total. Opener Punam Raut (20) and skipper Mithali Raj (20) also got starts but failed to prolong their stay at the crease. All the South Africa bowlers looked helpless in front of the Indian batswomen as they could just manage to take three wickets with Sune Luus registering best figures of one for 31. 2nd ODI : India won by 178 runs. @M_Raj03 -led India take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. Pic courtesy- CSA pic.twitter.com/1uDpeLyXA8 — BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) February 7, 2018 × Just like the first ODI, Indian bowlers too were clinical in their approach, bowling out South Africa for just 124 runs in 30.5 overs to register yet another massive win. Leg-spinner Poonam Yadav excelled with the ball for India with figures of four for 24, while left-arm spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2/14) and offie Deepti Sharma (2/34) shared four victims between them. India's veteran pacer Jhulan Goswami also added another feather to her illustrious cap today by becoming the first female cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets. The 35-year-old Goswami, playing her 166th ODI, achieved the feat when she dismissed opener Laura Wolvaardt for her 200th scalp. South Africa's struggle against the Indian attack can be gauged from the fact that only two of their batswomen could manage double-digit scores. Opener Lizelle Lee held the fort single-handedly from one end with a 75-ball 73 but she did not get the desired support from her teammates. The only other South African batswoman to have reached double-digit score was Marizanne Kapp, who remained unbeaten on 17.

South Africa vs India, 2nd ODI: Smriti Mandhana inspires India to series victory

India captain Virat Kohli has hit his 34th hundred in the third ODI against South Africa in Cape Town.&nbsp;

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Third ODI: Virat Kohli slams his 34th century. India are 214 for 4 in 39.1 overs <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/zSwutpLaAN">pic.twitter.com/zSwutpLaAN</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961235350919307266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India were at the time 214 for 4 in 39.1 overs.&nbsp;

India currently lead the six-match series 2-0.&nbsp;

This is the second hundred Kohli has scored in this series. He scored his first century of the series in the first ODI at Durban, and went on to make a total of 112.&nbsp;

India were at the time 214 for 4 in 39.1 overs.

India captain Virat Kohli has hit his 34th hundred in the third ODI against South Africa in Cape Town. Third ODI: Virat Kohli slams his 34th century. India are 214 for 4 in 39.1 overs #INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/zSwutpLaAN — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × India were at the time 214 for 4 in 39.1 overs. India currently lead the six-match series 2-0. This is the second hundred Kohli has scored in this series. He scored his first century of the series in the first ODI at Durban, and went on to make a total of 112.

India vs South Africa, 3rd ODI: Kohli slams 34th century

After the Men in Blue took charge of the series with a 2-0 lead in six-match series, Indian Women cricket team produced a clinical all-round performance to thrash South Africa by 88 runs in the first ODI of the ICC Women&#39;s Championship at Diamond Oval here on Monday.

Opener Smriti Mandhana smashed 84 off 98 while the pace duo of Jhulan Goswami and Shikha Pandey took 4 for 24 and 3 for 23 respectively.

The duo shared seven wickets between them to emerge as the architects of India&#39;s victory.&nbsp;

Electing to bat, left-handed batswoman Mandhana hit eight boundaries and a six in her 98-ball innings and shared a 99-run stand with skipper Mithali Raj (45) to help India post 213 for seven in 50 overs.&nbsp;

South Africa, meanwhile, chasing 214 for a win, failed to stitch partnerships and kept losing wickets at regular intervals.&nbsp;

Skipper D van Niekerk top-scored for South Africa with a 41.

Pandey rocked the hosts early by removing opener Lizelle Lee (3), wicket-keeper Trisha Chetty (5) and Mignon du Preez (0) to leave them at 23/3 in 9.2 overs.&nbsp;

Spinner Poonam Yadav (2/22) then accounted for the other opener Laura Wolvaardt (21), while Goswami trapped Chloe Tryon LBW as South Africa lost half their side in 22.5 overs.

The hosts were 125-all out after 43.2 overs.

Opener Smriti Mandhana smashed 84 off 98 balls

After the Men in Blue took charge of the series with a 2-0 lead in six-match series, Indian Women cricket team produced a clinical all-round performance to thrash South Africa by 88 runs in the first ODI of the ICC Women's Championship at Diamond Oval here on Monday. Opener Smriti Mandhana smashed 84 off 98 while the pace duo of Jhulan Goswami and Shikha Pandey took 4 for 24 and 3 for 23 respectively. The duo shared seven wickets between them to emerge as the architects of India's victory. Electing to bat, left-handed batswoman Mandhana hit eight boundaries and a six in her 98-ball innings and shared a 99-run stand with skipper Mithali Raj (45) to help India post 213 for seven in 50 overs. South Africa, meanwhile, chasing 214 for a win, failed to stitch partnerships and kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Skipper D van Niekerk top-scored for South Africa with a 41. Pandey rocked the hosts early by removing opener Lizelle Lee (3), wicket-keeper Trisha Chetty (5) and Mignon du Preez (0) to leave them at 23/3 in 9.2 overs. Spinner Poonam Yadav (2/22) then accounted for the other opener Laura Wolvaardt (21), while Goswami trapped Chloe Tryon LBW as South Africa lost half their side in 22.5 overs. The hosts were 125-all out after 43.2 overs.

1st ODI: After Men in Blue, Indian women thrash South Africa by 88 runs

Sometimes a movie comes so close to reality. Not many will disagree that Shahrukh Khan&rsquo;s Chak De India, released in 2007, has been one of the most inspiring sports movies ever. It was a saga about a bunch of girls from the hinterland, each one of whom came with her own set of problems but they came together and became the world beater.

&nbsp;

So, when Indian women cricketers were marching ahead last year in the ICC World Cup, it was a Chak De India moment for the country. Unfortunately, they lost nerves in the final and lost out from a very comfortable situation, but a clear statement was made by them.

&nbsp;

The way they routed Australia in the semi-final was a delight to watch. Harmanpreet&rsquo;s&nbsp; knock of 171 was an epic performance, once in a lifetime sort of.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The World Cup 2017 catapulted the Indian team to a different level altogether. India produced great women cricketers over the past few years and they came to the fore. Take the case of captain Mithali Raj, who is one among finest women batting legends ever, or say Jhulan Goswami who is regarded as one of the fastest bowlers the game has produced and she is the highest wicket-taker in ODI.

&nbsp;

India&rsquo;s prowess was evident when the side easily defeated South Africa yesterday in the first ODI of three ODI series in South Africa. So, it was a double bonanza for Indians. On 4th February, Indian men humbled South Africa and, next day, it was the turn of Indian women to repeat the act.

&nbsp;

It is so gratifying to see that how Indian sportswomen have taken the centre stage over the past decade, coincidently after Chak De India was released. It was first Sania Mirza in Tennis, Saina Nehwal in Badminton and Mary Kom in Boxing. Then it was Phogat sisters, who sizzled in the wrestling arena.&nbsp; This, however, reached its peak in 2016-17. In 2016, PV Sindhu&rsquo;s silver medal at the Rio Olympic in Badminton has been, unarguably, one of finest moments ever in Indian sports history. Another medal was won by Sakshi Malik in wrestling. It was a defining moment for the country. India has been riddled with gender biases against women since ages. However, it was women who won all the medals at the Olympic for the country in 2016.

&nbsp;

Coming back to the ODI yesterday. Indian ladies won with immaculate ease and with a margin of 88 runs. Make no mistake. South Africa is a strong side and the margin of 88 runs is huge. They defeated India in a group match in the World Cup last year and, thus, it was a sweet revenge there for Indian women. Young Smriti Mandhana struck with lovely 84 and captain and veteran Mithali Raj spearheaded the innings in middle by a gritty 45.

&nbsp;

But it was Jhulan who ripped through South African batting line-up with four wickets. 35 years of age, Jhulan proved that age is just a number and she still has a lot to deliver. Shikha Pandey with three wickets supported her well.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

With this victory, Indian ladies have set the tone for the three-match ODI series and three-match T-20 series. Let&rsquo;s hope they will sweep both.

&nbsp;

But for the time being, let&rsquo;s all hail our superwomen; you have been doing the country proud, relentlessly.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indian ladies won with immaculate ease and with a margin of 88 runs. Make no mistake. South Africa is a strong side and the margin of 88 runs is huge.

Sometimes a movie comes so close to reality. Not many will disagree that Shahrukh Khan’s Chak De India, released in 2007, has been one of the most inspiring sports movies ever. It was a saga about a bunch of girls from the hinterland, each one of whom came with her own set of problems but they came together and became the world beater. So, when Indian women cricketers were marching ahead last year in the ICC World Cup, it was a Chak De India moment for the country. Unfortunately, they lost nerves in the final and lost out from a very comfortable situation, but a clear statement was made by them. The way they routed Australia in the semi-final was a delight to watch. Harmanpreet’s knock of 171 was an epic performance, once in a lifetime sort of. The World Cup 2017 catapulted the Indian team to a different level altogether. India produced great women cricketers over the past few years and they came to the fore. Take the case of captain Mithali Raj, who is one among finest women batting legends ever, or say Jhulan Goswami who is regarded as one of the fastest bowlers the game has produced and she is the highest wicket-taker in ODI. India’s prowess was evident when the side easily defeated South Africa yesterday in the first ODI of three ODI series in South Africa. So, it was a double bonanza for Indians. On 4th February, Indian men humbled South Africa and, next day, it was the turn of Indian women to repeat the act. It is so gratifying to see that how Indian sportswomen have taken the centre stage over the past decade, coincidently after Chak De India was released. It was first Sania Mirza in Tennis, Saina Nehwal in Badminton and Mary Kom in Boxing. Then it was Phogat sisters, who sizzled in the wrestling arena. This, however, reached its peak in 2016-17. In 2016, PV Sindhu’s silver medal at the Rio Olympic in Badminton has been, unarguably, one of finest moments ever in Indian sports history. Another medal was won by Sakshi Malik in wrestling. It was a defining moment for the country. India has been riddled with gender biases against women since ages. However, it was women who won all the medals at the Olympic for the country in 2016. Coming back to the ODI yesterday. Indian ladies won with immaculate ease and with a margin of 88 runs. Make no mistake. South Africa is a strong side and the margin of 88 runs is huge. They defeated India in a group match in the World Cup last year and, thus, it was a sweet revenge there for Indian women. Young Smriti Mandhana struck with lovely 84 and captain and veteran Mithali Raj spearheaded the innings in middle by a gritty 45. But it was Jhulan who ripped through South African batting line-up with four wickets. 35 years of age, Jhulan proved that age is just a number and she still has a lot to deliver. Shikha Pandey with three wickets supported her well. With this victory, Indian ladies have set the tone for the three-match ODI series and three-match T-20 series. Let’s hope they will sweep both. But for the time being, let’s all hail our superwomen; you have been doing the country proud, relentlessly. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Despite gender bias, India's women cricketers make the nation proud

After AB de Villiers, and Faf du Plessis now its Quinton de Kock, who has been ruled out of the remaining four one day matches due to the wrist injury also the upcoming T20s series against India.

De Kock suffered a left wrist injury while batting during the second ODI at Centurion on Sunday and needs two to four weeks to make a full recovery.

The ouster of wicket-keeper batsman will last a major blow to the team as the two-star players are already out.

India had marked a comfortable win in both the previous matches. The squad, especially the bowling attack is in terrific form. India won the first ODI at Durban by six wickets and the second ODI by nine wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the six-match series.&nbsp;

On one hand, India will enter Cape Town for the third ODI match on Wednesday with a high but on the other South Africa is struggling with injuries.

After winning the last match, India temporarily retained the top ICC ODI spot and looking forward to winning the ODI series after the unfortunate Test loss.

Keeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen had already been included in the South Africa squad after the first ODI and can now be expected to make his debut in the third match at Cape Town on Wednesday.

&nbsp;

Quinton de Kock will be out of action for around 2-4 weeks because of a wrist injury

After AB de Villiers, and Faf du Plessis now its Quinton de Kock, who has been ruled out of the remaining four one day matches due to the wrist injury also the upcoming T20s series against India. De Kock suffered a left wrist injury while batting during the second ODI at Centurion on Sunday and needs two to four weeks to make a full recovery. The ouster of wicket-keeper batsman will last a major blow to the team as the two-star players are already out. India had marked a comfortable win in both the previous matches. The squad, especially the bowling attack is in terrific form. India won the first ODI at Durban by six wickets and the second ODI by nine wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the six-match series. On one hand, India will enter Cape Town for the third ODI match on Wednesday with a high but on the other South Africa is struggling with injuries. After winning the last match, India temporarily retained the top ICC ODI spot and looking forward to winning the ODI series after the unfortunate Test loss. Keeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen had already been included in the South Africa squad after the first ODI and can now be expected to make his debut in the third match at Cape Town on Wednesday.

Another injury blow to South Africa: After de Villiers, du Plessis, now de Kock

A new World Cup event featuring eight leading athletics nations and intended to attract a wider audience to the sport will take place in London this year, British Athletics said on Monday.

Britain and the United States will compete along with South Africa, Poland, France, China, Germany and Jamaica in the inaugural World Cup from July 14-15 at London Stadium, venue for the 2012 Olympic athletics events and last year&#39;s world championships.

&quot;This is one of the exciting innovative events we are seeing in our sport and our thanks go to British Athletics and the Mayor of London for creating it and hosting it,&quot; International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) President Sebastian Coe said in a statement.

&quot;We have 8 lanes, 8 top nations, 8 teams and a host of world class athletes lining up in each event to win the trophy and prize pot. This will be a fast-paced and exhilarating experience for athletes and fans.&quot;

One male and one female athlete from each nation will be selected for every field event and each track race up to 1500 metres, with the total prize pot set at $2 million over two evening sessions.

UK Athletics Chairman Richard Bowker said the World Cup event was an extension of the original idea to host a competition between Britain and the U.S.

Because other countries were keen to become involved an eight-country format was devised to extend the sport&#39;s reach to a new audience.

&quot;The two sessions will be in the evening, under lights with straight finals. There will be no heats or rounds so it should be even more exciting,&quot; he said, adding that it might become more than a one-off.

&quot;We hope this can become a major event. The best way to do that is to ensure the success of his first edition,&quot; he said.

Bowker defended the timing, which was criticised by British athlete Kelly Sotherton on social media for clashing with soccer&#39;s World Cup final and Wimbledon tennis finals.

&quot;We were obviously aware of the dates,&quot; said Bowker, pointing out that organisers were constrained by the stadium sharing arrangement with Premier League soccer club West Ham United.

&quot;There is limited availability. We know the World Cup Final happens in the afternoon, UK time, so we would say that everyone can come along afterwards. What a fantastic weekend of sport that will be.&quot;

Britain and the United States will compete along with South Africa, Poland, France, China, Germany and Jamaica in the inaugural World Cup from July 14-15 at London Stadium

A new World Cup event featuring eight leading athletics nations and intended to attract a wider audience to the sport will take place in London this year, British Athletics said on Monday. Britain and the United States will compete along with South Africa, Poland, France, China, Germany and Jamaica in the inaugural World Cup from July 14-15 at London Stadium, venue for the 2012 Olympic athletics events and last year's world championships. "This is one of the exciting innovative events we are seeing in our sport and our thanks go to British Athletics and the Mayor of London for creating it and hosting it," International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) President Sebastian Coe said in a statement. "We have 8 lanes, 8 top nations, 8 teams and a host of world class athletes lining up in each event to win the trophy and prize pot. This will be a fast-paced and exhilarating experience for athletes and fans." One male and one female athlete from each nation will be selected for every field event and each track race up to 1500 metres, with the total prize pot set at $2 million over two evening sessions. UK Athletics Chairman Richard Bowker said the World Cup event was an extension of the original idea to host a competition between Britain and the U.S. Because other countries were keen to become involved an eight-country format was devised to extend the sport's reach to a new audience. "The two sessions will be in the evening, under lights with straight finals. There will be no heats or rounds so it should be even more exciting," he said, adding that it might become more than a one-off. "We hope this can become a major event. The best way to do that is to ensure the success of his first edition," he said. Bowker defended the timing, which was criticised by British athlete Kelly Sotherton on social media for clashing with soccer's World Cup final and Wimbledon tennis finals. "We were obviously aware of the dates," said Bowker, pointing out that organisers were constrained by the stadium sharing arrangement with Premier League soccer club West Ham United. "There is limited availability. We know the World Cup Final happens in the afternoon, UK time, so we would say that everyone can come along afterwards. What a fantastic weekend of sport that will be."

London to host inaugural eight-nation Athletics World Cup

&nbsp;

South Africa top batting line-up collapsed against India&#39;s wrist spin after they lost three wickets in the space of six balls&nbsp;in the second ODI at SuperSport Park, Centurion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav struck twice to dismiss stand-in-skipper <a href="http://www.cricbuzz.com/profiles/9582/aiden-markram" title="View profile of Aiden Markram">Aiden Markram&nbsp;</a>and David Miller at 8 and 0 respectively.

Pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar gave India its first breakthrough to dismiss opener Hashim Amla at 23 runs.

In-form Virat Kohli is in no mood to let South Africa equal the series and hence preferred to do what he is best at.

The Indian skipper won the toss and opted to bowl against Proteas, a move signalling Kohli&#39;s desire to again chase the target.

In the first ODI, Kohli smashed a magnificent century along with Ajinkya Rahane, who scored 79 runs, added 189 runs and made a chase of 270 look ridiculously easy against a good South African bowling attack.&nbsp;

India leads the six-match ODI series by 1-0. 
&nbsp; 
Coming back to the teams, South Africa have handed a debut to Khaya Zondo and have selected two wrist spinners, Imran Tahir and Tabriez Shamshi.&nbsp;

Having suffered a huge setback due to regular skipper Faf du Plessis&#39; injury, the Cricket South Africa today named 23-year-old batsman Aiden Markram as skipper for the remainder of the five-match ODI series against India

For India, there are no changes.&nbsp;

The Indian skipper won the toss and opted to bowl against Proteas

South Africa top batting line-up collapsed against India's wrist spin after they lost three wickets in the space of six balls in the second ODI at SuperSport Park, Centurion. Mystery spinner Kuldeep Yadav struck twice to dismiss stand-in-skipper Aiden Markram and David Miller at 8 and 0 respectively. Pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar gave India its first breakthrough to dismiss opener Hashim Amla at 23 runs. In-form Virat Kohli is in no mood to let South Africa equal the series and hence preferred to do what he is best at. The Indian skipper won the toss and opted to bowl against Proteas, a move signalling Kohli's desire to again chase the target. In the first ODI, Kohli smashed a magnificent century along with Ajinkya Rahane, who scored 79 runs, added 189 runs and made a chase of 270 look ridiculously easy against a good South African bowling attack. India leads the six-match ODI series by 1-0. Coming back to the teams, South Africa have handed a debut to Khaya Zondo and have selected two wrist spinners, Imran Tahir and Tabriez Shamshi. Having suffered a huge setback due to regular skipper Faf du Plessis' injury, the Cricket South Africa today named 23-year-old batsman Aiden Markram as skipper for the remainder of the five-match ODI series against India For India, there are no changes.

2nd ODI: Chahal, Kuldeep cripple South Africa

Hit by a severe drought, the city authorities of South Africa&#39;s Cape town issued a warning to residents&nbsp;saying that it might have to turn off most city taps in mid-April if residents don&#39;t save enough water.

New water restrictions&nbsp; have also been introduced by the authorities on Thursday in an attempt to avoid &quot;Day Zero.&quot;

Residents will be asked to use no more than 50 litres (13.2 gallons) of water daily, down from the current limit of 87 litres (23 gallons).

The day zero is the day when the water in the dams reaches 13.5 per cent of the capacity which currently three-quarter empty, which probably will fall in April.

Most of the city&#39;s water is demand is supplied by dams.

According to the new instructions, taps will be shut off and residents will have to stand in queues to get water which will be only allowed 25 litres per person.

However, water will be supplied to hospitals, clinics and essential services.

Showing proof of consequence of climate change, drought is hurting Cape town&#39;s tourism industry also affecting economy of the city,

Hotels have asked guests not to use baths and to limit showers to two minutes or less, while some restaurants are switching to disposable cups and ditching table linen.

Tourism accounted for an estimated 9 percent of South Africa&#39;s economic output last year, or 412 billion rands ($35 billion).

There is no official data available yet to quantify the impact water shortages are having on numbers&nbsp;

According to the reports if the situation remains same for several more weeks then it will become a first major city to run out of the water.

(With inputs from Reuters)

New water restrictions have also been introduced by the authorities on Thursday in an attempt to avoid 'Day Zero'

Hit by a severe drought, the city authorities of South Africa's Cape town issued a warning to residents saying that it might have to turn off most city taps in mid-April if residents don't save enough water. New water restrictions have also been introduced by the authorities on Thursday in an attempt to avoid "Day Zero." Residents will be asked to use no more than 50 litres (13.2 gallons) of water daily, down from the current limit of 87 litres (23 gallons). The day zero is the day when the water in the dams reaches 13.5 per cent of the capacity which currently three-quarter empty, which probably will fall in April. Most of the city's water is demand is supplied by dams. According to the new instructions, taps will be shut off and residents will have to stand in queues to get water which will be only allowed 25 litres per person. However, water will be supplied to hospitals, clinics and essential services. Showing proof of consequence of climate change, drought is hurting Cape town's tourism industry also affecting economy of the city, Hotels have asked guests not to use baths and to limit showers to two minutes or less, while some restaurants are switching to disposable cups and ditching table linen. Tourism accounted for an estimated 9 percent of South Africa's economic output last year, or 412 billion rands ($35 billion). There is no official data available yet to quantify the impact water shortages are having on numbers According to the reports if the situation remains same for several more weeks then it will become a first major city to run out of the water. (With inputs from Reuters)

South Africa: Cape town issues warning as city faces severe water shortage due to drought

Having suffered a huge setback due to regular skipper Faf du Plessis&#39; injury, the Cricket South Africa today named 23-year-old batsman Aiden Markram as skipper for the remainder of the five-match ODI series against India.

Du Plessis fractured his right index finger during the first ODI in Durban that India won by six wicket despite his century.

Markram has only featured in two ODIs so far, making his debut against Bangladesh in October 2017. He has also played 6 Tests.

He led South Africa to Under-19 World Cup triumph in 2014 and has been widely regarded as a future captain. However, Du Plessis&#39; unfortunate injury prompted selectors to fast-track Markram to the hot-seat.

&quot;It wasn&#39;t a hard decision. Rather, it was an easy decision. If AB de Villiers was around, and other senior players as well, we would have probably looked at different options,&quot; said Linda Zondi, convenor and head of the Cricket South Africa selection panel.

&quot;But at the moment, with both our former captains not around, it was an ideal opportunity for us that here is Markram, let?s see what he can offer. We are confident. He wants to do it as well. It just gives us an opportunity to open it up and see what he can offer,&quot; Zondi added.

&quot;We are aware that Markram is new to our set-up. Part of our Vision 2019 plan is to build a pool of leaders within the set-up. I think Markram has always been in our plans since he was Under-19 captain, leading up to South Africa A, and now joining the Proteas,&quot; the convenor further added.

He admitted that Markram will be under a lot of pressure.

&quot;It has been a journey. Yes there will be pressure in terms of understanding his role and also being able to perform as a player. For us, we want to see if he can handle pressure because part of leadership is to be able to adjust and perform under pressure. We hope he has the right skill and the right capability to do so,&quot; he added.

There has been no announcement on the captain for the ensuing three T20Is series though. Du Plessis is ruled out for that contest as well.

&quot;At the moment, we don&#39;t want to make any commitment. I think our primary focus for now is this ODI series. We do have a captain in Faf. Markram is going to be stand-in captain for the remaining ODIs,&quot; Zondi concluded.&nbsp;

Du Plessis fractured his right index finger during the first ODI

Having suffered a huge setback due to regular skipper Faf du Plessis' injury, the Cricket South Africa today named 23-year-old batsman Aiden Markram as skipper for the remainder of the five-match ODI series against India. Du Plessis fractured his right index finger during the first ODI in Durban that India won by six wicket despite his century. Markram has only featured in two ODIs so far, making his debut against Bangladesh in October 2017. He has also played 6 Tests. He led South Africa to Under-19 World Cup triumph in 2014 and has been widely regarded as a future captain. However, Du Plessis' unfortunate injury prompted selectors to fast-track Markram to the hot-seat. "It wasn't a hard decision. Rather, it was an easy decision. If AB de Villiers was around, and other senior players as well, we would have probably looked at different options," said Linda Zondi, convenor and head of the Cricket South Africa selection panel. "But at the moment, with both our former captains not around, it was an ideal opportunity for us that here is Markram, let?s see what he can offer. We are confident. He wants to do it as well. It just gives us an opportunity to open it up and see what he can offer," Zondi added. "We are aware that Markram is new to our set-up. Part of our Vision 2019 plan is to build a pool of leaders within the set-up. I think Markram has always been in our plans since he was Under-19 captain, leading up to South Africa A, and now joining the Proteas," the convenor further added. He admitted that Markram will be under a lot of pressure. "It has been a journey. Yes there will be pressure in terms of understanding his role and also being able to perform as a player. For us, we want to see if he can handle pressure because part of leadership is to be able to adjust and perform under pressure. We hope he has the right skill and the right capability to do so," he added. There has been no announcement on the captain for the ensuing three T20Is series though. Du Plessis is ruled out for that contest as well. "At the moment, we don't want to make any commitment. I think our primary focus for now is this ODI series. We do have a captain in Faf. Markram is going to be stand-in captain for the remaining ODIs," Zondi concluded.

Faf du Plessis ruled out, Aiden Markram to lead South Africa in remaining five ODIs

Not many would have expected this. The ease with which India dismantled South Africa in the first ODI of the 6-match series was pretty exhilarating to watch. And Virat Kohli has once again proven why he is the king of ODI cricket at present. His 33rd ODI century, along with Ajinkya Rahane&rsquo;s sparkling fifty, helped India achieve a thumping 6-wicket win over the visitors in Durban last night. Given that this was the No. 1 ODI side in the world who were on a 17-match unbeaten streak a home, India&rsquo;s victory is significant.

In the past, Indian teams have generally not begun well on tours to South Africa and, eventually, have had to play catch up throughout the series. With this win, India now has a rare chance to set the tone of remaining matches.&nbsp;

This win also showed how disciplined a team India has become in the ODI cricket. They do not care about the venue or the opposition. They have a varied and strong bowling attack; they back their strength of chasing, and have got all bases covered.&nbsp;

A majestic chase

An impressive show with the ball, especially by the spinners Kuldeep Yadav and&nbsp; Yuzvendra Chahal restricted South Africa to a respectable score of 269-8 with captain Faf du Plessis&rsquo;s excellent 120 being the home&rsquo;s team&rsquo;s sole shining light.

India stumbled in the chase after losing both their openers with the score on 67. Another wicket there and the game would have opened up. However, captain Kohli and the newly instated Ajinkya Rahane at No.4 went on stitch a match-winning 189-run partnership for the 4th wicket to take the game away from South Africa.

The South African quicks &ndash; Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada &ndash; were bowling consistently over 145 km/h, but both Kohli and Rahane played maturely. They got themselves in and ran well between the wickets. And as the ball became softer they began attacking with great authority. It was a beautiful display of batsmanship as both Kohli and Rahane unfurled an array of glittering strokes to please the crowd at the stadium.&nbsp;

No matter what bowling combination South Africa tried, Kohli and Rahane were equal to it and counter-attacked splendidly. Rahane&rsquo;s innings &ndash; 79 off 86 balls with 5 fours and 2 sixes &ndash; was special and needed for the Indian ODI team at present. The No.4 position has been causing India a lot of headaches recently and with Rahane&rsquo;s mature and classy knock, they can breathe easy for a while.

Kohli was majestic through and through. It was another ODI master class in a chase by the star batsman and the way he paved his innings was a treat to watch. To put things in perspective, this was Kohli&rsquo;s 20th ODI hundred in a chase and shows how dominant a batsman he is for India. Also, with this century, Kohli has played in nine countries, all full-members, and has scored a century in all of them. Clearly, at the rate he is progressing, Kohli would have created some unbeatable records by the time he is done.

By the time he was dismissed for a glorious 112 off 119 balls with 10 fours, India was well on their way to victory and eventually chased the target down with about five overs to spare.

It remains to be seen how Team India progresses in the remaining matches, but they have certainly made a bold statement that they will not be pushovers and South Africa have a task on their hands now.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This win against South Africa showed how disciplined a team India has become in the ODI cricket.

Not many would have expected this. The ease with which India dismantled South Africa in the first ODI of the 6-match series was pretty exhilarating to watch. And Virat Kohli has once again proven why he is the king of ODI cricket at present. His 33rd ODI century, along with Ajinkya Rahane’s sparkling fifty, helped India achieve a thumping 6-wicket win over the visitors in Durban last night. Given that this was the No. 1 ODI side in the world who were on a 17-match unbeaten streak a home, India’s victory is significant. In the past, Indian teams have generally not begun well on tours to South Africa and, eventually, have had to play catch up throughout the series. With this win, India now has a rare chance to set the tone of remaining matches. This win also showed how disciplined a team India has become in the ODI cricket. They do not care about the venue or the opposition. They have a varied and strong bowling attack; they back their strength of chasing, and have got all bases covered. A majestic chase An impressive show with the ball, especially by the spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal restricted South Africa to a respectable score of 269-8 with captain Faf du Plessis’s excellent 120 being the home’s team’s sole shining light. India stumbled in the chase after losing both their openers with the score on 67. Another wicket there and the game would have opened up. However, captain Kohli and the newly instated Ajinkya Rahane at No.4 went on stitch a match-winning 189-run partnership for the 4th wicket to take the game away from South Africa. The South African quicks – Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada – were bowling consistently over 145 km/h, but both Kohli and Rahane played maturely. They got themselves in and ran well between the wickets. And as the ball became softer they began attacking with great authority. It was a beautiful display of batsmanship as both Kohli and Rahane unfurled an array of glittering strokes to please the crowd at the stadium. No matter what bowling combination South Africa tried, Kohli and Rahane were equal to it and counter-attacked splendidly. Rahane’s innings – 79 off 86 balls with 5 fours and 2 sixes – was special and needed for the Indian ODI team at present. The No.4 position has been causing India a lot of headaches recently and with Rahane’s mature and classy knock, they can breathe easy for a while. Kohli was majestic through and through. It was another ODI master class in a chase by the star batsman and the way he paved his innings was a treat to watch. To put things in perspective, this was Kohli’s 20th ODI hundred in a chase and shows how dominant a batsman he is for India. Also, with this century, Kohli has played in nine countries, all full-members, and has scored a century in all of them. Clearly, at the rate he is progressing, Kohli would have created some unbeatable records by the time he is done. By the time he was dismissed for a glorious 112 off 119 balls with 10 fours, India was well on their way to victory and eventually chased the target down with about five overs to spare. It remains to be seen how Team India progresses in the remaining matches, but they have certainly made a bold statement that they will not be pushovers and South Africa have a task on their hands now. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: The ease with which India dismantled South Africa

Skipper Virat Kohli peeled off yet another century as India defeated South Africa by six wickets in the first ODI of the six-match series to take 1-0 lead at Kingsmead, Durban on Thursday.

With many dramatic moments on the ground, it was Shikhar Dhawan&#39;s anger at Virat Kohli which caught the attention of the viewers yesterday.&nbsp;

Dhawan was scoring good in the first ODI against South Africa when his inning was prematurely brought to an end amid a forced run by Kohli at the other end.&nbsp;Dhawan had to leave the ground with 35 runs from 29 balls.

The incident happened in the 13th when the opener was struck on the pads and as South Africa appealed for leg before, Dhawan was slowed down in his response to a Kohli&rsquo;s shout for stealing a quick run.&nbsp;

With Kohli more than halfway down the pitch, Dhawan had no choice but to run for it.&nbsp;However, alert Aiden Markram spot on target and Dhawan had no chance to make it to safety.

Upset with the push for a single, Dhawan walked looking back at Kohli and shook his head while gesturing the run wasn&rsquo;t there to be taken.&nbsp;

Later, in the dressing room, a clearly irate Dhawan vented his frustration to batting coach Sanjay Bangar.

However, Cricket fans made the most of Dhawan&#39;s anger and took to Twitter to comment on the incident.&nbsp;

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Dhawan waiting for Kohli in dressing room <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/py0aIuO7U8">pic.twitter.com/py0aIuO7U8</a>
&mdash; Sir Bumraaaah!!!! (@Ibleed_sarcasm) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ibleed_sarcasm/status/959098374480801793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Newton&#39;s law of cricket 
It states that KOHLI will remain at rest or in motion in a straight line in indecisiveness and will lead to run out the batsman at the other end<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreedomSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreedomSeries</a>
&mdash; The Eye Doctor (@sharad91mishra) <a href="https://twitter.com/sharad91mishra/status/959101193631948800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rare moment where the batsman abusing after a run-out is not Kohli. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a>
&mdash; Trendulkar (@Trendulkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/Trendulkar/status/959096910027132929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Dear Shikhar Dhawan, you must be remember that Virat Kohli is the captain.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a>
&mdash; Sunil- The Cricketer (@1sInto2s) <a href="https://twitter.com/1sInto2s/status/959097144270401536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kohli deserved the Man of the match award. Not only did he score a century but also took Shikhar Dhawan&rsquo;s wicket.
&mdash; Bhayanak Puppy (@BhayanakPuppy) <a href="https://twitter.com/BhayanakPuppy/status/959149157700190208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India chased down 270 in 45.3 overs with Kohli scoring his first limited-overs ton in South Africa. He was out after scoring 112 off 119 balls.

It was India&#39;s first ever win in ODIs over South Africa in Durban and they also broke the hosts&#39; run of 17 consecutive wins at home.

Skipper Virat Kohli peeled off yet another century as India defeated South Africa by six wickets in the first ODI of the six-match series to take 1-0 lead at Kingsmead, Durban on Thursday. With many dramatic moments on the ground, it was Shikhar Dhawan's anger at Virat Kohli which caught the attention of the viewers yesterday. Dhawan was scoring good in the first ODI against South Africa when his inning was prematurely brought to an end amid a forced run by Kohli at the other end. Dhawan had to leave the ground with 35 runs from 29 balls. The incident happened in the 13th when the opener was struck on the pads and as South Africa appealed for leg before, Dhawan was slowed down in his response to a Kohli’s shout for stealing a quick run. With Kohli more than halfway down the pitch, Dhawan had no choice but to run for it. However, alert Aiden Markram spot on target and Dhawan had no chance to make it to safety. Upset with the push for a single, Dhawan walked looking back at Kohli and shook his head while gesturing the run wasn’t there to be taken. Later, in the dressing room, a clearly irate Dhawan vented his frustration to batting coach Sanjay Bangar. However, Cricket fans made the most of Dhawan's anger and took to Twitter to comment on the incident. Dhawan waiting for Kohli in dressing room #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/py0aIuO7U8 — Sir Bumraaaah!!!! (@Ibleed_sarcasm) February 1, 2018 × Newton's law of cricket It states that KOHLI will remain at rest or in motion in a straight line in indecisiveness and will lead to run out the batsman at the other end#INDvSA #FreedomSeries — The Eye Doctor (@sharad91mishra) February 1, 2018 × Rare moment where the batsman abusing after a run-out is not Kohli. #INDvSA — Trendulkar (@Trendulkar) February 1, 2018 × Dear Shikhar Dhawan, you must be remember that Virat Kohli is the captain.#INDvSA — Sunil- The Cricketer (@1sInto2s) February 1, 2018 × Kohli deserved the Man of the match award. Not only did he score a century but also took Shikhar Dhawan’s wicket. — Bhayanak Puppy (@BhayanakPuppy) February 1, 2018 × India chased down 270 in 45.3 overs with Kohli scoring his first limited-overs ton in South Africa. He was out after scoring 112 off 119 balls. It was India's first ever win in ODIs over South Africa in Durban and they also broke the hosts' run of 17 consecutive wins at home.

1st ODI: Shikhar Dhawan gets angry at Kohli after run out, Twitterati make the most of it

All 955 gold miners who were trapped underground for more than a day in&nbsp;<a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/South-Africa" pg="AS1_InlineMedia#AS1_https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/all-955-miners-trapped-in-south-africa-resurface-unharmed-mine-owner/articleshow/62752100.cms~South Africa-https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/South-Africa">South Africa</a>&nbsp;following a power cut resurfaced unharmed on Friday, the mine&#39;s owner Sibanye Gold said. 
&quot;Everybody&#39;s out,&quot; said spokesman James&nbsp;<a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Wellsted" pg="AS1_InlineMedia#AS1_https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/all-955-miners-trapped-in-south-africa-resurface-unharmed-mine-owner/articleshow/62752100.cms~Wellsted-https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Wellsted">Wellsted</a>, adding that there were &quot;cases of dehydration and high blood pressure but nothing serious&quot;. 
 
The miners were stuck in the Beatrix gold mine, in the small town of Theunissen near the city of Welkom, for around 30 hours after a massive power outage caused by a storm prevented lifts from bringing workers on the night shift to the surface. 
 
After several hours engineers were able to restore power, allowing the hoist to bring up the miners -- who had been trapped since Wednesday evening -- in batches.

&nbsp;

Asked if there had been any casualties, Wellsted said there was &quot;no indication so far that anyone has been in distress&quot; although it had been a &quot;traumatic experience&quot;. 
 
Several ambulances arrived on-site overnight, the AFP reporter said. 
 
Nervous family members had earlier patiently gathered along the road to the shaft, kept at a distance by security guards.

&nbsp;

All 955 gold miners who were trapped underground for more than a day in South Africa following a power cut resurfaced unharmed on Friday, the mine's owner Sibanye Gold said. "Everybody's out," said spokesman James Wellsted, adding that there were "cases of dehydration and high blood pressure but nothing serious". The miners were stuck in the Beatrix gold mine, in the small town of Theunissen near the city of Welkom, for around 30 hours after a massive power outage caused by a storm prevented lifts from bringing workers on the night shift to the surface. After several hours engineers were able to restore power, allowing the hoist to bring up the miners -- who had been trapped since Wednesday evening -- in batches. Asked if there had been any casualties, Wellsted said there was "no indication so far that anyone has been in distress" although it had been a "traumatic experience". Several ambulances arrived on-site overnight, the AFP reporter said. Nervous family members had earlier patiently gathered along the road to the shaft, kept at a distance by security guards.

All 955 miners trapped in South Africa resurface unharmed: Mine owner

Indian captain Virat Kohli gave his team an injury scare when he landed awkwardly on his left knee while fielding in the first one-day international against South Africa at Kingsmead on Thursday.

Kohli made a sliding stop in the seventh over but his boot took a big divot and he appeared to jar his knee as he landed on an outfield softened by overnight rain. He left the field briefly but returned in the next over.

After fielding in the covers for five overs, Kohli went to slip but then left the field again in the 14th over. There was no immediate word on his condition.

The skipper landed awkwardly on his left knee while fielding

Indian captain Virat Kohli gave his team an injury scare when he landed awkwardly on his left knee while fielding in the first one-day international against South Africa at Kingsmead on Thursday. Kohli made a sliding stop in the seventh over but his boot took a big divot and he appeared to jar his knee as he landed on an outfield softened by overnight rain. He left the field briefly but returned in the next over. After fielding in the covers for five overs, Kohli went to slip but then left the field again in the 14th over. There was no immediate word on his condition.

1st ODI: Virat Kohli injury scare for India

The One Day International series between India and South Africa is set to start.&nbsp;South Africa and India will vie for the world number one ranking again when they meet in a six-match one-day international series, starting at Kingsmead on Thursday.

South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first. A&nbsp;perfect&nbsp;decision for the Proteas, as the wicket looks fine as of now.

The brown grass on the pitch is a good news for the pacers.

India is banking on wrist spinners, and wicket might help them as it appears bit dry.

In a recent interview, Indian skipper said: &quot;The balance of ODI side is very good.&quot;

&quot;India is the only team in the world to be blessed with two wrist spinners. Kedar Jadhav is doing a conventional job.&quot;

He also mentioned that Spinners might give a new boost to the team with their outstanding abilities.

The past week saw India losing to the host 2-1 and barely managing to save themselves from a series whitewash. The performance, especially the batting side was not at par but keeping the bittersweet memories of the Test series aside, team India is now looking forward to salvaging the pride in a limited overs format.

Teams:

South Africa: Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock(w), Faf du Plessis(c), Aiden Markram, Jean-Paul Duminy, David Miller, Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir.

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni(w), Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal.

&nbsp;

South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first in the first ODI match against India

The One Day International series between India and South Africa is set to start. South Africa and India will vie for the world number one ranking again when they meet in a six-match one-day international series, starting at Kingsmead on Thursday. South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first. A perfect decision for the Proteas, as the wicket looks fine as of now. The brown grass on the pitch is a good news for the pacers. India is banking on wrist spinners, and wicket might help them as it appears bit dry. In a recent interview, Indian skipper said: "The balance of ODI side is very good." "India is the only team in the world to be blessed with two wrist spinners. Kedar Jadhav is doing a conventional job." He also mentioned that Spinners might give a new boost to the team with their outstanding abilities. The past week saw India losing to the host 2-1 and barely managing to save themselves from a series whitewash. The performance, especially the batting side was not at par but keeping the bittersweet memories of the Test series aside, team India is now looking forward to salvaging the pride in a limited overs format. Teams: South Africa: Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock(w), Faf du Plessis(c), Aiden Markram, Jean-Paul Duminy, David Miller, Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir. India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Ajinkya Rahane, MS Dhoni(w), Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal.

India vs South Africa: SA to bat first in 1st ODI

The One Day International series between India and South Africa is set to start.&nbsp;South Africa and India will vie for the world number one ranking again when they meet in a six-match one-day international series, starting at Kingsmead on Thursday.

If we talk about history, India has never won an ODI match in the Kingsmead, Durban and that&#39;s an additional pressure on skipper Virat Kohli and the team but it is expected that &#39;Men in blue&#39; would start the ODI series with new energy.

Despite the odds that the team have faced in the recent past, Indian captain Virat Kohli is very confident about the line-up for the upcoming ODI series.

In a recent interview, he said: &quot;The balance of ODI side is very good.&quot;

&quot;India is the only team in the world to be blessed with two wrist spinners. Kedar Jadhav is doing a conventional job.&quot;

He also mentioned that Spinners might give a new boost to the team with their outstanding abilities.

Virat emphasised on the fact that, spinners give results on any pitch condition&nbsp;in the foreign as well as home soil.

Indian sqaud (TBC)

Virat Kohli (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Ajinkya Rahane, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur.

Ahead of the ODI series, skipper Kohli said that the core of the team is settled and the number four spot is the only position where the team will look to experiment.

&quot;The lower middle order is sorted, the combination is working well for the team.&quot;

We have experimented a lot with spot number four&nbsp;in the last few games and only this spot needs to be solidified.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli banks on wrist spinners for ODI series against South Africa and emphasised that spinners give results on any pitch condition in the foreign as well as home soil

The One Day International series between India and South Africa is set to start. South Africa and India will vie for the world number one ranking again when they meet in a six-match one-day international series, starting at Kingsmead on Thursday. If we talk about history, India has never won an ODI match in the Kingsmead, Durban and that's an additional pressure on skipper Virat Kohli and the team but it is expected that 'Men in blue' would start the ODI series with new energy. Despite the odds that the team have faced in the recent past, Indian captain Virat Kohli is very confident about the line-up for the upcoming ODI series. In a recent interview, he said: "The balance of ODI side is very good." "India is the only team in the world to be blessed with two wrist spinners. Kedar Jadhav is doing a conventional job." He also mentioned that Spinners might give a new boost to the team with their outstanding abilities. Virat emphasised on the fact that, spinners give results on any pitch condition in the foreign as well as home soil. Indian sqaud (TBC) Virat Kohli (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Ajinkya Rahane, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur. Ahead of the ODI series, skipper Kohli said that the core of the team is settled and the number four spot is the only position where the team will look to experiment. "The lower middle order is sorted, the combination is working well for the team." We have experimented a lot with spot number four in the last few games and only this spot needs to be solidified.

Virat Kohli: 'The balance of ODI side is very good'

The One Day International series between India and South Africa is set to start.&nbsp;South Africa and India will vie for the world number one ranking again when they meet in a six-match one-day international series, starting at Kingsmead on Thursday.

The past week saw India losing to the host 2-1 and barely managing to save themselves from a series whitewash. The performance, especially the batting side was not at par but keeping the bittersweet memories of the Test series aside, team India is now looking forward to salvaging the pride in a limited overs format.

If we talk about history, India has never won an ODI match in the Kingsmead, Durban and that&#39;s an additional pressure on skipper Virat Kohli and the team but it is expected that &#39;Men in blue&#39; would start the ODI series with new energy.

Presence of former captain, MS Dhoni, might help the team, as Virat&#39;s leadership was questioned by many veteran cricketers.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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When <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> has a go at the nets <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/ex3mTby1Gb">pic.twitter.com/ex3mTby1Gb</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/958707814519754752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Although Indian top batting order failed badly during the Test matches, in some instances, few of the batsmen played really well but they were not in a position to absorb the pressure and as a result, they lost the series.

Unlike the Tests, the one-day internationals could be dominated by batsmen, with six of the world&#39;s top ten one-day batsmen in action on pitches which, unlike the Tests, should favour aggressive stroke play.

Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal might give a new boost to the team with their spinning abilities. On the other hand, Ab de Villiers has been ruled out of the first three ODIs against India with a finger injury and that&#39;s definitely a good news for team India.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Match day Eve and we&#39;ve got the bowlers gearing up in full flow at the nets <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Zn2glxhqCZ">pic.twitter.com/Zn2glxhqCZ</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/958687952338653189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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When it comes to ODI matches limited over format, India has performed exponentially well in the recent past. In the last ODI series against Sri Lanka, India won the series by 4-1.

South Africa are on top of the International Cricket Council one-day rankings by a slender one point from India. Altogether, it&#39;s a really good opportunity for team India to grab the 1st rank again.

Squad (TBC):

South Africa:

Quinton de Kock (wk), Faf du Plessis (c), Hashim Amla, Jean-Paul Duminy, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Chris Morris, Lungisani Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir, Tabraiz Shamsi, Khaya Zondo

India:

Virat Kohli (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Ajinkya Rahane, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur

&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal might give a new boost to the team with their spinning abilities

The One Day International series between India and South Africa is set to start. South Africa and India will vie for the world number one ranking again when they meet in a six-match one-day international series, starting at Kingsmead on Thursday. The past week saw India losing to the host 2-1 and barely managing to save themselves from a series whitewash. The performance, especially the batting side was not at par but keeping the bittersweet memories of the Test series aside, team India is now looking forward to salvaging the pride in a limited overs format. If we talk about history, India has never won an ODI match in the Kingsmead, Durban and that's an additional pressure on skipper Virat Kohli and the team but it is expected that 'Men in blue' would start the ODI series with new energy. Presence of former captain, MS Dhoni, might help the team, as Virat's leadership was questioned by many veteran cricketers. When @msdhoni has a go at the nets #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/ex3mTby1Gb — BCCI (@BCCI) January 31, 2018 × Although Indian top batting order failed badly during the Test matches, in some instances, few of the batsmen played really well but they were not in a position to absorb the pressure and as a result, they lost the series. Unlike the Tests, the one-day internationals could be dominated by batsmen, with six of the world's top ten one-day batsmen in action on pitches which, unlike the Tests, should favour aggressive stroke play. Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal might give a new boost to the team with their spinning abilities. On the other hand, Ab de Villiers has been ruled out of the first three ODIs against India with a finger injury and that's definitely a good news for team India. Match day Eve and we've got the bowlers gearing up in full flow at the nets #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/Zn2glxhqCZ — BCCI (@BCCI) January 31, 2018 × When it comes to ODI matches limited over format, India has performed exponentially well in the recent past. In the last ODI series against Sri Lanka, India won the series by 4-1. South Africa are on top of the International Cricket Council one-day rankings by a slender one point from India. Altogether, it's a really good opportunity for team India to grab the 1st rank again. Squad (TBC): South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Faf du Plessis (c), Hashim Amla, Jean-Paul Duminy, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Chris Morris, Lungisani Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Morne Morkel, Imran Tahir, Tabraiz Shamsi, Khaya Zondo India: Virat Kohli (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Manish Pandey, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Ajinkya Rahane, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur

1st ODI, India vs South Africa: Virat Kohli eyes top ODI spot

Faf du Plessis top-scored with 120 off 112 as South Africa finished their innings for 269/8 against India in the first of the six-match one-day international series on Thursday.&nbsp;

Kuldeep Yadav was the pick of the bowler with figures of 3/34

The Proteas brought back Aiden Markram at No.4 along with Jean-Paul Duminy and Imran Tahir into the side.&nbsp;

India, on the other end, decided to play three seamers, and three spinners.

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India vs South Africa (AFP)
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Indian Skipper Virat Kohli gave his team an injury scare when he landed awkwardly on his left knee while fielding in the first one-day international against South Africa at Kingsmead on Thursday.

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India vs South Africa (AFP)
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After Bumrah gave India the first breakthrough&nbsp;sending back Amla for&nbsp;16, opener Quinton de Kock and skipper Faf du Plessis together struck a partnership of 50 runs to save the team early blushes.

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India vs South Africa (AFP)
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Chahal broke the partnership as he&nbsp;dismissed the wicketkeeper-batsman de Kock for&nbsp;34 runs. He also took Aiden Markram&#39;s wicket.

Kuldeep Yadav also struck twice for his team and sent back Jean-Paul Duminy and David Miller back to the pavilion for&nbsp;12 and 7 runs respectively.

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India vs South Africa (AFP)
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South Africa scored 156 for the loss of five wickets after 34 overs.

South Africa and India are vieing for the world number one ranking in the&nbsp;six-match one-day international series.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The pitch looked to be a good batting surface

Faf du Plessis top-scored with 120 off 112 as South Africa finished their innings for 269/8 against India in the first of the six-match one-day international series on Thursday. Kuldeep Yadav was the pick of the bowler with figures of 3/34 The Proteas brought back Aiden Markram at No.4 along with Jean-Paul Duminy and Imran Tahir into the side. India, on the other end, decided to play three seamers, and three spinners. India vs South Africa (AFP) × Indian Skipper Virat Kohli gave his team an injury scare when he landed awkwardly on his left knee while fielding in the first one-day international against South Africa at Kingsmead on Thursday. India vs South Africa (AFP) × After Bumrah gave India the first breakthrough sending back Amla for 16, opener Quinton de Kock and skipper Faf du Plessis together struck a partnership of 50 runs to save the team early blushes. India vs South Africa (AFP) × Chahal broke the partnership as he dismissed the wicketkeeper-batsman de Kock for 34 runs. He also took Aiden Markram's wicket. Kuldeep Yadav also struck twice for his team and sent back Jean-Paul Duminy and David Miller back to the pavilion for 12 and 7 runs respectively. India vs South Africa (AFP) × South Africa scored 156 for the loss of five wickets after 34 overs. South Africa and India are vieing for the world number one ranking in the six-match one-day international series.

1st ODI: Faf du Plessis slams ton, South Africa set 270-run target for India

Five days before the final Test on a pitch that bore an excessively green tinge, pacer Kagiso Rabada said South Africa are gunning for a whitewash of India, having trampled the visitors in the first two matches.

The hosts have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead with convincing wins in the first two Tests, with Rabada producing a match-winning spell at the Newlands.

&quot;Obviously we know how to play fast bowling and we&#39;ve got respect for their attack. Every game you go into, you want to win. So obviously we want to get a whitewash against India.&quot;

Rabada said that India are too reliant on skipper Virat Kohli, who scored his 21st Test hundred at Centurion.

&quot;I think they do rely on him. But it is just like we rely on a couple of players too. I&#39;m not saying India don&#39;t have any quality players, they do. But it&#39;s just a fact - Kohli scores most of their runs.

&quot;It is really enjoyable bowling to the likes of him. He was named ICC Player of the Year (sic), so it&#39;s quite cool to go up against the best.&quot;

When asked about India&#39;s lack of preparation going into the series, he said, &quot;I don&#39;t know what&#39;s going on in their preparation. That&#39;s not something we want to look at really.

&quot;We&#39;ve got no concern with their preparation. We&#39;re concerned with how we want to get them out and how we want to win against them. I&#39;m not going to diagnose their problems.&quot;

The young pacer though feels that the Indian attack has given a good account in the two Tests.

&quot;The fast bowlers are excited to bowl at the Wanderers. We always are as it has pace, bounce and swing. Bumrah is a very good bowler, he&#39;s already opening the bowling now. He&#39;s done very well with the one-day stuff and now he&#39;s doing very well in the Test matches too.

&quot;Mohammed Shami is very experienced and got some pace. Umesh Yadav, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar who caused a lot of trouble in Cape Town, they&#39;ve got good fast bowlers.&quot;

His team 2-0 up, he is not thinking about cricket now.

&quot;I haven&#39;t seen the pitch yet. Cricket is off my mind now and the hard work starts again on Monday. Then we&#39;ll have a look at the pitch. We know how the conditions behave here.

&quot;India played really well the last time they were here, Kohli got a hundred. Wanderers is a good wicket, it&#39;s normally a moving wicket. It&#39;s a pitch where if you bat well you can score some runs, and if you bowl well you&#39;ll take wickets.&quot;

Rabada said playing India is a challenge though there is a difference between their overseas record since 2011, and their record during their dream run in the 2015-17 period.

&quot;Playing against the Indians is extremely challenging. They are known for their great batsmen and they&#39;ve got really good bowlers as well. So they are very competitive, they&#39;re throwing everything they have at us, and their batsmen want to make a statement.

&quot;They&#39;ve made a statement everywhere else in the world, and they wanted to come here and really beat us. So things are going to get a bit messy out there. But that&#39;s just the nature of it, with two quality sides coming against each other. Off the field, we&#39;re friends,&quot; he added.

The Proteas won the second Test by 135 runs to clinch the the series and Rabada said that their team effort helped them to beat India.

&quot;It&#39;s nice to see youngsters step up ? like Lungi Ngidi, he stepped up. Aiden Markram stepped up in the first innings. It was also nice to see Hashim Amla get some runs, AB de Villiers came in and played a very crucial knock in the second innings.

&quot;He&#39;s just got the ability to speed the game up and not get out at the same time. So he played very well, I thought that was a very key moment. And also the way Dean Elgar hung with him.&quot;

He said South Africa wanted to bat as long as possible in the second innings at Centurion.

&quot;In the second innings, we just wanted to bat time, see how long we could go because we knew the pitch was only getting harder to bat on. There was a bit of variable bounce. The wicket was squatting a bit and some balls were bouncing, a bit more misbehaving.

&quot;We knew reverse swing was going to be a tactic, and the short ball as well, because of the nature of the wicket. All in all, I thought our bowlers did a great job in containing the runs and bowling wicket-taking deliveries,&quot; he added.

Rabada highlighted that AB de Villiers&#39; free-scoring knocks in Cape Town and Centurion had set up the wins for South Africa.

&quot;AB is a genius at his craft. It&#39;s a fact. He stays in on difficult wickets, but he&#39;s striking at 70 or 80 - he makes it look easy.

&quot;He&#39;s got a real understanding of the game, which a lot of people don&#39;t get that easily. It looks very simple to him. He&#39;s a very crucial player in our team,&quot; said Rabada.

He also talked about Lungi Ngidi, someone who he has played with since the Under-19 days. The latter took 6-39 in India&#39;s second innings collapse at Supersport Park.

&quot;Lungi and I, we played together in the Under-19. We even toured India I remember, but he got injured unfortunately and his trip was cut short. But we played together at school and we have a history. So it&#39;s just nice to play with your friend, from when you were a teenager.

&quot;Hopefully long may it continue, and we can form a great partnership. I know he has enjoyed bowling with the likes of Morne Morkel and Vernon Philander as well.&quot;

The hosts have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead with convincing wins in the first two Tests.

Five days before the final Test on a pitch that bore an excessively green tinge, pacer Kagiso Rabada said South Africa are gunning for a whitewash of India, having trampled the visitors in the first two matches. The hosts have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead with convincing wins in the first two Tests, with Rabada producing a match-winning spell at the Newlands. "Obviously we know how to play fast bowling and we've got respect for their attack. Every game you go into, you want to win. So obviously we want to get a whitewash against India." Rabada said that India are too reliant on skipper Virat Kohli, who scored his 21st Test hundred at Centurion. "I think they do rely on him. But it is just like we rely on a couple of players too. I'm not saying India don't have any quality players, they do. But it's just a fact - Kohli scores most of their runs. "It is really enjoyable bowling to the likes of him. He was named ICC Player of the Year (sic), so it's quite cool to go up against the best." When asked about India's lack of preparation going into the series, he said, "I don't know what's going on in their preparation. That's not something we want to look at really. "We've got no concern with their preparation. We're concerned with how we want to get them out and how we want to win against them. I'm not going to diagnose their problems." The young pacer though feels that the Indian attack has given a good account in the two Tests. "The fast bowlers are excited to bowl at the Wanderers. We always are as it has pace, bounce and swing. Bumrah is a very good bowler, he's already opening the bowling now. He's done very well with the one-day stuff and now he's doing very well in the Test matches too. "Mohammed Shami is very experienced and got some pace. Umesh Yadav, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar who caused a lot of trouble in Cape Town, they've got good fast bowlers." His team 2-0 up, he is not thinking about cricket now. "I haven't seen the pitch yet. Cricket is off my mind now and the hard work starts again on Monday. Then we'll have a look at the pitch. We know how the conditions behave here. "India played really well the last time they were here, Kohli got a hundred. Wanderers is a good wicket, it's normally a moving wicket. It's a pitch where if you bat well you can score some runs, and if you bowl well you'll take wickets." Rabada said playing India is a challenge though there is a difference between their overseas record since 2011, and their record during their dream run in the 2015-17 period. "Playing against the Indians is extremely challenging. They are known for their great batsmen and they've got really good bowlers as well. So they are very competitive, they're throwing everything they have at us, and their batsmen want to make a statement. "They've made a statement everywhere else in the world, and they wanted to come here and really beat us. So things are going to get a bit messy out there. But that's just the nature of it, with two quality sides coming against each other. Off the field, we're friends," he added. The Proteas won the second Test by 135 runs to clinch the the series and Rabada said that their team effort helped them to beat India. "It's nice to see youngsters step up ? like Lungi Ngidi, he stepped up. Aiden Markram stepped up in the first innings. It was also nice to see Hashim Amla get some runs, AB de Villiers came in and played a very crucial knock in the second innings. "He's just got the ability to speed the game up and not get out at the same time. So he played very well, I thought that was a very key moment. And also the way Dean Elgar hung with him." He said South Africa wanted to bat as long as possible in the second innings at Centurion. "In the second innings, we just wanted to bat time, see how long we could go because we knew the pitch was only getting harder to bat on. There was a bit of variable bounce. The wicket was squatting a bit and some balls were bouncing, a bit more misbehaving. "We knew reverse swing was going to be a tactic, and the short ball as well, because of the nature of the wicket. All in all, I thought our bowlers did a great job in containing the runs and bowling wicket-taking deliveries," he added. Rabada highlighted that AB de Villiers' free-scoring knocks in Cape Town and Centurion had set up the wins for South Africa. "AB is a genius at his craft. It's a fact. He stays in on difficult wickets, but he's striking at 70 or 80 - he makes it look easy. "He's got a real understanding of the game, which a lot of people don't get that easily. It looks very simple to him. He's a very crucial player in our team," said Rabada. He also talked about Lungi Ngidi, someone who he has played with since the Under-19 days. The latter took 6-39 in India's second innings collapse at Supersport Park. "Lungi and I, we played together in the Under-19. We even toured India I remember, but he got injured unfortunately and his trip was cut short. But we played together at school and we have a history. So it's just nice to play with your friend, from when you were a teenager. "Hopefully long may it continue, and we can form a great partnership. I know he has enjoyed bowling with the likes of Morne Morkel and Vernon Philander as well."

We want to get a whitewash against India, says South African pacer Kagiso Rabada

Debutant Lungi Ngidi finished with the figures of six for 39 to help South Africa win the second Test&nbsp;match against India by 135 runs&nbsp;at Centurion on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ngidi&#39;s bowling spell dominated India&#39;s batting line including the top order during day 4 and 5.

Chasing 287 for a win, India were bundled out for 151 in the second innings. With this win, the Proteas have clinched the three-match series by 2-0. They won the first Test&nbsp;by 72 runs in Cape Town.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rohit (47) and Shami (28) stitched together a 53-run partnership before Rohit was dismissed by Rabada.&nbsp;

Earlier, India resumed their innings on 35 for three with Cheteshwar Pujara and Parthiv Patel on strike.&nbsp;

But, the Indian batsmen couldn&#39;t face the heat of African bowlers as the visitors fell like ninepins.&nbsp;

The Indian batting line on Wednesday suffered some serious damage after the men in blue lost early four wickets within an hour of the start of day 5 of the second Test match between India and South Africa. &nbsp;

Pujara is India&#39;s fourth casualty and first of today, after he was run out for 19 runs. He is the first Indian batsman to have been run-out twice in a single Test match.

Minutes later, Parthiv Patel also departed for 19 runs off Morne Morkel.

Hardik Pandya and Ravichandran Ashwin too couldn&#39;t manage to score and establish a partnership with Rohit Sharma.

Pandya fell off for 6 while Ashwin gave away his wicket for 3 runs. &nbsp;&nbsp;

with only one wicket remaining, India&#39;s score stands at 147 for the loss of nine wickets after 49 overs. &nbsp;

On day 4, India&#39;s top order again failed to perform as the visitors left battling to save the second Test reduced to 35 for three at stumps.

South African debutant pacer, Lungi Ngidi struck twice to claim KL Rahul and Virat Kohli. Opener Rahul managed just 4 runs and with skipper Virat Kohli out lbw for just 5 runs. 
&nbsp;

Ngidi's bowling spell dominated India's batting line including the top order during day 4 and 5

Debutant Lungi Ngidi finished with the figures of six for 39 to help South Africa win the second Test match against India by 135 runs at Centurion on Wednesday. Ngidi's bowling spell dominated India's batting line including the top order during day 4 and 5. Chasing 287 for a win, India were bundled out for 151 in the second innings. With this win, the Proteas have clinched the three-match series by 2-0. They won the first Test by 72 runs in Cape Town. Rohit (47) and Shami (28) stitched together a 53-run partnership before Rohit was dismissed by Rabada. Earlier, India resumed their innings on 35 for three with Cheteshwar Pujara and Parthiv Patel on strike. But, the Indian batsmen couldn't face the heat of African bowlers as the visitors fell like ninepins. The Indian batting line on Wednesday suffered some serious damage after the men in blue lost early four wickets within an hour of the start of day 5 of the second Test match between India and South Africa. Pujara is India's fourth casualty and first of today, after he was run out for 19 runs. He is the first Indian batsman to have been run-out twice in a single Test match. Minutes later, Parthiv Patel also departed for 19 runs off Morne Morkel. Hardik Pandya and Ravichandran Ashwin too couldn't manage to score and establish a partnership with Rohit Sharma. Pandya fell off for 6 while Ashwin gave away his wicket for 3 runs. with only one wicket remaining, India's score stands at 147 for the loss of nine wickets after 49 overs. On day 4, India's top order again failed to perform as the visitors left battling to save the second Test reduced to 35 for three at stumps. South African debutant pacer, Lungi Ngidi struck twice to claim KL Rahul and Virat Kohli. Opener Rahul managed just 4 runs and with skipper Virat Kohli out lbw for just 5 runs.

2nd Test: Ngidi's 6-wicket haul helps South Africa beat India by 135 runs, clinch series 2-0

Virat Kohli-led team India is now on the verge of losing the&nbsp;second Test, after Kagiso Rabada dismissed Rohit Sharma on 47, the sole player on whom hopes were pinned.

The Indian batting line on Wednesday suffered some serious damage after the men in blue lost early four wickets within an hour of the start of day 5 of the&nbsp;second Test match between India and South Africa. &nbsp;

Pujara is India&#39;s fourth casualty and first of today, after he was run out for 19 runs. He is the first Indian batsman to have been run-out twice in a single Test match.

Minutes later, Parthiv Patel also departed for 19 runs off Morne Morkel.

Hardik Pandya and Ravichandran Ashwin too couldn&#39;t manage to score and establish a partnership with Rohit Sharma.

Pandya fell off for 6 while Ashwin gave away his wicket for 3 runs. &nbsp;&nbsp;

with only one wicket remaining, India&#39;s score stands at 147 for the loss of nine&nbsp;wickets after 49 overs. &nbsp;

On day 4, India&#39;s top order again failed to perform as the visitors left battling to save the second Test reduced to 35 for three at stumps.

South African debutant pacer, Lungi Ngidi struck twice to claim KL Rahul and Virat Kohli. Opener Rahul managed just 4 runs and with skipper Virat Kohli out lbw for just 5 runs.

Pujara is India's fourth casualty and first of Day 5

Virat Kohli-led team India is now on the verge of losing the second Test, after Kagiso Rabada dismissed Rohit Sharma on 47, the sole player on whom hopes were pinned. The Indian batting line on Wednesday suffered some serious damage after the men in blue lost early four wickets within an hour of the start of day 5 of the second Test match between India and South Africa. Pujara is India's fourth casualty and first of today, after he was run out for 19 runs. He is the first Indian batsman to have been run-out twice in a single Test match. Minutes later, Parthiv Patel also departed for 19 runs off Morne Morkel. Hardik Pandya and Ravichandran Ashwin too couldn't manage to score and establish a partnership with Rohit Sharma. Pandya fell off for 6 while Ashwin gave away his wicket for 3 runs. with only one wicket remaining, India's score stands at 147 for the loss of nine wickets after 49 overs. On day 4, India's top order again failed to perform as the visitors left battling to save the second Test reduced to 35 for three at stumps. South African debutant pacer, Lungi Ngidi struck twice to claim KL Rahul and Virat Kohli. Opener Rahul managed just 4 runs and with skipper Virat Kohli out lbw for just 5 runs.

India on verge of losing 2nd Test as Rabada dismisses Rohit, are 147/9 after 49 overs

Team India is on the verge of losing second Test match against the Proteas as India&#39;s top order again failed to perform and reduced to 35 for three at the close on the fourth day of the second Test but the temper of both the sides can be seen on the field.

Earlier Indian skipper, Virat Kohli, exchanged few words with South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the first innings of the second Test when he scored 153 runs and played some handsome shots.

Frustrated Rabada, who was eyeing Kohli&#39;s wicket, couldn&#39;t refrain from sledging at the Indian batsman but his plan didn&#39;t really work out as Kohli calmly retaliated and gave words of advice to the youngster.

Kohli&#39;s problems are not ending, despite scoring a century in the first innings, India trails far behind in the second Test and might lose the series as well.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-found-guilty-of-misbehaving-with-umpires-29690" target="_blank">Recently, he was penalised 25 %</a> of match fee for &ldquo;conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game.&rdquo;

Kohli also received one demerit point for his Level 1 offence, along with the fine for breaching ICC&#39;s code of conduct.

The incident occurred in the 25th over of South Africa&rsquo;s second innings. The Indian captain was seen complaining to field umpire Michael Gough about the ball being affected by a damp outfield following a shower in the third session. Kohli then threw the ball on to the ground &ldquo;in an aggressive manner&rdquo;, field umpires complained to the match referee Chris Broad.

&nbsp;

Indian skipper, Virat Kohli exchanged few words with South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the first innings of the second Test

Team India is on the verge of losing second Test match against the Proteas as India's top order again failed to perform and reduced to 35 for three at the close on the fourth day of the second Test but the temper of both the sides can be seen on the field. Earlier Indian skipper, Virat Kohli, exchanged few words with South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the first innings of the second Test when he scored 153 runs and played some handsome shots. Frustrated Rabada, who was eyeing Kohli's wicket, couldn't refrain from sledging at the Indian batsman but his plan didn't really work out as Kohli calmly retaliated and gave words of advice to the youngster. Kohli's problems are not ending, despite scoring a century in the first innings, India trails far behind in the second Test and might lose the series as well. Recently, he was penalised 25 % of match fee for “conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game.” Kohli also received one demerit point for his Level 1 offence, along with the fine for breaching ICC's code of conduct. The incident occurred in the 25th over of South Africa’s second innings. The Indian captain was seen complaining to field umpire Michael Gough about the ball being affected by a damp outfield following a shower in the third session. Kohli then threw the ball on to the ground “in an aggressive manner”, field umpires complained to the match referee Chris Broad.

2nd Test: After hitting ton, Kohli retaliated against Rabada

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli lost his cool (somewhat) at the post-match press conference after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-test-ngidis-6-wicket-haul-helps-south-africa-beat-india-by-135-runs-clinch-series-2-0-29854" target="_blank">losing the second Test</a> to South Africa on Wednesday.&nbsp;

&quot;What is the best 11?&quot; Kohli snapped, when asked if India had played their best 11.&nbsp;

&quot;If we had won this, was this the best 11? We don&#39;t decide the 11 according to results. You are telling me that you could have played the best 11.&nbsp; 
You tell me the best 11 and we will play that,&quot; Kohli said.

India have now lost the first two Tests against South Africa, which puts the three-match series beyond them.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/batsmen-let-the-team-down-virat-kohli-on-losing-2nd-test-to-south-africa-29872" target="_blank">Batsmen let the team down, Virat Kohli says after losing 2nd Test to South Africa</a>

There had been questions asked over India&#39;s selection. The biggest being why Rohit Sharma was picked over Ajinkya Rahane, the other being why Bhuvneshesh Kumar -- one of India&#39;s best bowlers in the first Test -- was dropped for the second. &nbsp;

&quot;I am saying the loss obviously hurts but you make one decision and you got to back it. We don&#39;t sit here and say if you will fail in one game, you are not good enough to be at this level. Didn&#39;t we lose in India when we had the best 11 there?

&quot;Whoever is picked should be good enough to do the job for the team. That is why we have got such a big squad. They are good enough to be at this level but you need to do that collectively as a team. You can&#39;t pinpoint and say which is the best 11. We have played with teams in the past which have looked really strong and lost,&quot; Kohli said.&nbsp;

Kohli was also asked if the team was losing because of all the chopping and changing -- India have fielded different teams (at least one change was made) in all the Test matches played under him.&nbsp;

&quot;How many Test matches have we won out of 34? How many have we won? How many have we won? 21 wins. Two losses. How many draws? Does it matter? Wherever we play we try to do our best. I&#39;m here to answer your questions, not to fight with you,&quot; Kohli countered.

It was helpfully pointed out after the conference that Kohli has actually won 20 of the 34 Tests played under his captaincy, not 21.&nbsp;

And that while Kohli might have snapped back at the reporters asking him the questions, sports journalists said the line of questioning was &quot;provocative&quot;. And that, under the circumstances, Kohli handled himself well.&nbsp;

Having said that, Kohli had earlier been known to very often lose his cool. Most hilariously during the 2015 World Cup when he lost his shirt at a sports journalist because of a story done by someone else.&nbsp;

He&#39;d gotten the two mixed up.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

'You tell me the best 11 and we will play that,' Kohli said at the post-match press conference

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli lost his cool (somewhat) at the post-match press conference after losing the second Test to South Africa on Wednesday. "What is the best 11?" Kohli snapped, when asked if India had played their best 11. "If we had won this, was this the best 11? We don't decide the 11 according to results. You are telling me that you could have played the best 11. You tell me the best 11 and we will play that," Kohli said. India have now lost the first two Tests against South Africa, which puts the three-match series beyond them. Also read: Batsmen let the team down, Virat Kohli says after losing 2nd Test to South Africa There had been questions asked over India's selection. The biggest being why Rohit Sharma was picked over Ajinkya Rahane, the other being why Bhuvneshesh Kumar -- one of India's best bowlers in the first Test -- was dropped for the second. "I am saying the loss obviously hurts but you make one decision and you got to back it. We don't sit here and say if you will fail in one game, you are not good enough to be at this level. Didn't we lose in India when we had the best 11 there? "Whoever is picked should be good enough to do the job for the team. That is why we have got such a big squad. They are good enough to be at this level but you need to do that collectively as a team. You can't pinpoint and say which is the best 11. We have played with teams in the past which have looked really strong and lost," Kohli said. Kohli was also asked if the team was losing because of all the chopping and changing -- India have fielded different teams (at least one change was made) in all the Test matches played under him. "How many Test matches have we won out of 34? How many have we won? How many have we won? 21 wins. Two losses. How many draws? Does it matter? Wherever we play we try to do our best. I'm here to answer your questions, not to fight with you," Kohli countered. It was helpfully pointed out after the conference that Kohli has actually won 20 of the 34 Tests played under his captaincy, not 21. And that while Kohli might have snapped back at the reporters asking him the questions, sports journalists said the line of questioning was "provocative". And that, under the circumstances, Kohli handled himself well. Having said that, Kohli had earlier been known to very often lose his cool. Most hilariously during the 2015 World Cup when he lost his shirt at a sports journalist because of a story done by someone else. He'd gotten the two mixed up. (With inputs from PTI)

India lose Test, Kohli loses his cool

India&#39;s top order again failed to perform as the visitors left battling to save the second Test reduced to&nbsp;35 for three at the close on the fourth day of the second Test at SuperSport Park on Tuesday.

India lost both openers early along with the key wicket of captain Virat Kohli as India struggled to keep their hopes alive in the series.

South African debutant pacer, Lungi Ngidi struck twice to claim&nbsp;KL Rahul&nbsp;and Virat Kohli. Opener Rahul managed just 4 runs and with skipper Virat Kohli out lbw for just 5 runs.

Parthiv Patel batted defiantly to end the day with Pujara with India still needing 252 runs to win on the last day.

Earlier, Indian opener Murli Vijay lost his wicket to Rabada&nbsp;after scoring 9 runs as India struggled early in the second innings.

South Africa leading the series 1-0 did not let up, piling on the pressure as the Indian batsmen crumbled under sustained aggression.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-found-guilty-of-misbehaving-with-umpires-29690" target="_blank">Virat Kohli found guilty of &#39;misbehaving&#39; with umpires, fined</a>

The main highlight of South Africa&rsquo;s second innings was of AB de Villiers and Dean Elgar, scoring 80 and 61 respectively.

&quot;It&#39;s massive for us and I think it&#39;s massive for India, knowing he&#39;s not batting,&quot; said South Africa opener Dean Elgar.

&quot;He&#39;s a very special batsman, as we saw in the first innings. I&#39;m sitting here with a smile on my face because he&#39;s one less very competitive, extremely talented batsman we have to deal with,&quot; he added.

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A few big moments in the last two overs. First snicko picked up an edge that SA did no appeal for when Pujara was facing up to Morkel. Then there&#39;s a huge appeal for Ngidi against Patel. SA opt to rightly not review. India 28/3 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProteaFire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProteaFire</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/cnAZ2mY1x8">pic.twitter.com/cnAZ2mY1x8</a>
&mdash; Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialCSA/status/953293032165662720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-test-south-africa-all-out-for-258-in-2nd-innings-29737" target="_blank">Mohammed Shami&#39;s four-wicket haul had South Africa all out for 258 runs</a> in their second innings during the final session.

The Proteas managed to set India a mammoth target of 287 at the Centurion.

For India, apart from Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah took three wickets and Ishant Sharma also managed to get two.&nbsp;

Shami had struck three times for his team to dismiss two set batsman AB de Villiers and Dean Elgar and one new batsman Quinton de Kock in quick succession.

Skipper Faf du Plessis and Vernon Philander were the two batsmen on the crease who generated a partnership to take South Africa&#39;s score to 173/5 at lunch.&nbsp;

Earlier on Day 3, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-kohli-century-keeps-india-in-touch-with-south-africa-29624" target="_blank">Kohli hit a masterly 153 in India`s first innings</a> of 307 to stay in touch in Centurion, even though South Africa stretched 28-run first innings lead to 118 by scoring 90 for two in their second spell at-bat on a storm-shortened afternoon.

&nbsp;

South African debutant pacer, Lungi Ngidi struck twice and claimed KL Rahul's and Virat Kohli's wicket on 4th day of the second Test

India's top order again failed to perform as the visitors left battling to save the second Test reduced to 35 for three at the close on the fourth day of the second Test at SuperSport Park on Tuesday. India lost both openers early along with the key wicket of captain Virat Kohli as India struggled to keep their hopes alive in the series. South African debutant pacer, Lungi Ngidi struck twice to claim KL Rahul and Virat Kohli. Opener Rahul managed just 4 runs and with skipper Virat Kohli out lbw for just 5 runs. Parthiv Patel batted defiantly to end the day with Pujara with India still needing 252 runs to win on the last day. Earlier, Indian opener Murli Vijay lost his wicket to Rabada after scoring 9 runs as India struggled early in the second innings. South Africa leading the series 1-0 did not let up, piling on the pressure as the Indian batsmen crumbled under sustained aggression. Also read: Virat Kohli found guilty of 'misbehaving' with umpires, fined The main highlight of South Africa’s second innings was of AB de Villiers and Dean Elgar, scoring 80 and 61 respectively. "It's massive for us and I think it's massive for India, knowing he's not batting," said South Africa opener Dean Elgar. "He's a very special batsman, as we saw in the first innings. I'm sitting here with a smile on my face because he's one less very competitive, extremely talented batsman we have to deal with," he added. A few big moments in the last two overs. First snicko picked up an edge that SA did no appeal for when Pujara was facing up to Morkel. Then there's a huge appeal for Ngidi against Patel. SA opt to rightly not review. India 28/3 #ProteaFire #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/cnAZ2mY1x8 — Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) January 16, 2018 × Earlier, Mohammed Shami's four-wicket haul had South Africa all out for 258 runs in their second innings during the final session. The Proteas managed to set India a mammoth target of 287 at the Centurion. For India, apart from Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah took three wickets and Ishant Sharma also managed to get two. Shami had struck three times for his team to dismiss two set batsman AB de Villiers and Dean Elgar and one new batsman Quinton de Kock in quick succession. Skipper Faf du Plessis and Vernon Philander were the two batsmen on the crease who generated a partnership to take South Africa's score to 173/5 at lunch. Earlier on Day 3, Kohli hit a masterly 153 in India`s first innings of 307 to stay in touch in Centurion, even though South Africa stretched 28-run first innings lead to 118 by scoring 90 for two in their second spell at-bat on a storm-shortened afternoon.

2nd Test: Parthiv, Pujara defy South Africa after top order fails

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday blamed his batsmen for letting the team down after their 135-run loss to South Africa in the second Test against at the SuperSport Park in Centurion.

With the loss, India conceded an unassailable 0-2 lead to the Proteas in the three-match series.&nbsp;

&quot;We failed to get a good partnership and take the lead. We have let ourselves down. The bowlers have done the job but the batsmen have let the team down... We tried but we weren`t good enough, especially in the fielding department. That`s why they (South Africa) are the winner,&quot; Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony here.

&quot;We thought the wicket was really flat to play. It was quite surprising. We thought we had our best chance to put up some runs on the board, specially after the way South Africa lost wickets in the first innings, I thought we gained momentum from that.

&quot;We should have capitalised. We were in a position to get the lead at one stage, if we could have had a big partnership, but we failed to convert again,&quot; added the skipper whose fighting 153 in India`s first innings went up in smoke.

The visitors had lost the first Test by 72 runs in Cape Town.

With the loss, India conceded an unassailable 0-2 lead to the Proteas in the three-match series.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Wednesday blamed his batsmen for letting the team down after their 135-run loss to South Africa in the second Test against at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. With the loss, India conceded an unassailable 0-2 lead to the Proteas in the three-match series. "We failed to get a good partnership and take the lead. We have let ourselves down. The bowlers have done the job but the batsmen have let the team down... We tried but we weren`t good enough, especially in the fielding department. That`s why they (South Africa) are the winner," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony here. "We thought the wicket was really flat to play. It was quite surprising. We thought we had our best chance to put up some runs on the board, specially after the way South Africa lost wickets in the first innings, I thought we gained momentum from that. "We should have capitalised. We were in a position to get the lead at one stage, if we could have had a big partnership, but we failed to convert again," added the skipper whose fighting 153 in India`s first innings went up in smoke. The visitors had lost the first Test by 72 runs in Cape Town.

Batsmen let the team down: Virat Kohli on losing 2nd Test to South Africa

South Africa&#39;s Cape Town, one of the world&#39;s iconic tourist destinations, could run out of water by April as the city&#39;s worst drought in a century risks forcing residents to join queues for emergency rations.

&quot;Day Zero&quot; - the date taps are due to run dry - has crept forward to April 22 as city authorities race to build desalination plants and drill underground boreholes.

Almost 2 million tourists flock to Cape Town every year to bathe on sandy white beaches, explore natural features like Table Mountain or to sip wine in dozens of nearby vineyards.

Travel and tourism accounted for an estimated 9 percent or 412 billion rand ($33 billion) of South Africa&#39;s economic output last year, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council.

&quot;At the current rate the city is likely to reach Day Zero on 22 April,&quot; said councilor Xanthea Limberg, Cape Town&#39;s mayoral committee member for water.

&quot;There is a real risk that residents will have to queue.&quot;

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<h5>Day Zero - the date taps are due to run dry - has crept forward to April 22 as city authorities race to build desalination plants and drill underground boreholes</h5>
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At a trial water collection site, similar to an estimated 200 the city may introduce, people queue between metal fences waiting to fill up containers from standpipes.

A maximum 25 litres of water will be provided per person, per day, officials said.

Limberg said the dire situation was being worsened by some people ignoring a push for residents and visitors to use no more than 87 litres of water per person per day.

Cape Town is home to many wealthy residents who have swimming pools and sprinkler systems, although the city does not want to play a &quot;blame game&quot; as lots of affluent residents are saving water, she said.

Businesses in the hospitality industry also say they are trying to help, limiting showers to two minutes and using water used for washing dishes and clothes to water gardens.

Authorities want to reduce the city&#39;s consumption to 500 million litres a day - half the amount used two years ago.

&quot;Everyone is taking as many steps and measures that they possibly can to try and make sure we don&#39;t reach Day Zero,&quot; said Gabrielle Bolton, spokeswoman for the five-star Belmond Mount Nelson hotel.

In a possible sign of things to come, security guards have been monitoring a steady flow of cars and people lining up at AB-Inbev&rsquo;s Newlands brewery to get up to 25 litres of free water from a mountain stream on its property.

The popular Newlands public swimming pool across the road from the brewery has been closed due to water restrictions with still two months of the South African summer left to run.

City officials say dam levels dipped below 30 percent in the first week of the new year, with only about 19.7 percent of that water considered usable. Residents will have to queue for water when dams reach 13.5 percent.

&quot;I am concerned we will run out of water and it is difficult,&quot; said Susan Jones, a grandmother who regularly visits the Newlands spring taps.

&quot;We are making do. We have to.&quot;

The city is going through its worst drought in a century

South Africa's Cape Town, one of the world's iconic tourist destinations, could run out of water by April as the city's worst drought in a century risks forcing residents to join queues for emergency rations. "Day Zero" - the date taps are due to run dry - has crept forward to April 22 as city authorities race to build desalination plants and drill underground boreholes. Almost 2 million tourists flock to Cape Town every year to bathe on sandy white beaches, explore natural features like Table Mountain or to sip wine in dozens of nearby vineyards. Travel and tourism accounted for an estimated 9 percent or 412 billion rand ($33 billion) of South Africa's economic output last year, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. "At the current rate the city is likely to reach Day Zero on 22 April," said councilor Xanthea Limberg, Cape Town's mayoral committee member for water. "There is a real risk that residents will have to queue." Day Zero - the date taps are due to run dry - has crept forward to April 22 as city authorities race to build desalination plants and drill underground boreholes × At a trial water collection site, similar to an estimated 200 the city may introduce, people queue between metal fences waiting to fill up containers from standpipes. A maximum 25 litres of water will be provided per person, per day, officials said. Limberg said the dire situation was being worsened by some people ignoring a push for residents and visitors to use no more than 87 litres of water per person per day. Cape Town is home to many wealthy residents who have swimming pools and sprinkler systems, although the city does not want to play a "blame game" as lots of affluent residents are saving water, she said. Businesses in the hospitality industry also say they are trying to help, limiting showers to two minutes and using water used for washing dishes and clothes to water gardens. Authorities want to reduce the city's consumption to 500 million litres a day - half the amount used two years ago. "Everyone is taking as many steps and measures that they possibly can to try and make sure we don't reach Day Zero," said Gabrielle Bolton, spokeswoman for the five-star Belmond Mount Nelson hotel. In a possible sign of things to come, security guards have been monitoring a steady flow of cars and people lining up at AB-Inbev’s Newlands brewery to get up to 25 litres of free water from a mountain stream on its property. The popular Newlands public swimming pool across the road from the brewery has been closed due to water restrictions with still two months of the South African summer left to run. City officials say dam levels dipped below 30 percent in the first week of the new year, with only about 19.7 percent of that water considered usable. Residents will have to queue for water when dams reach 13.5 percent. "I am concerned we will run out of water and it is difficult," said Susan Jones, a grandmother who regularly visits the Newlands spring taps. "We are making do. We have to."

South Africa's Cape Town may run out of water in 90 days

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