India vs South Africa 5th T20I Highlights: India Win Series 3-1

Pandya and Tilak Power India to Big Total

Ahmedabad:
India defeated South Africa by 30 runs in the fifth T20I to win the series 3-1. Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma starred with the bat. Their explosive fifties powered India to a massive 231 for 5.

Hardik Pandya smashed a 16-ball half-century. The knock earned him a standing ovation from Gautam Gambhir. Meanwhile, Tilak Varma played elegant strokes and kept the scoreboard moving. Together, they put South Africa under early pressure.

Bowlers Seal the Win for India

In response, Quinton de Kock gave South Africa a flying start. He hit three boundaries off Arshdeep Singh. However, Jasprit Bumrah dismissed de Kock at a crucial moment.

Soon after, Hardik Pandya removed Dewald Brevis. As a result, momentum shifted in India’s favour. Later, Varun Chakaravarthy dominated the middle overs. He picked up four wickets and derailed South Africa’s chase.

Samson Impresses, India Stay in Control

Earlier, Sanju Samson made full use of his opportunity. He attacked from the start in Shubman Gill’s absence. Meanwhile, Abhishek Sharma threw away his wicket after a promising start.

George Linde dismissed Samson for 37. However, India stayed in control despite Suryakumar Yadav’s poor form continuing. The strong spin attack ensured a comfortable win.

Toss Update and Team Changes

South Africa captain Aiden Markram won the toss and chose to bowl. India missed Shubman Gill due to injury. Kuldeep Yadav also sat out of the playing XI. Meanwhile, Sanju Samson returned as opener.

Series Context Before Final Match

All eyes were on the Narendra Modi Stadium for the final clash. India entered the match with a 2-1 lead. Earlier, the fourth T20I in Lucknow was abandoned due to heavy fog.

As a result, South Africa still had a chance to level the series. However, India ended all hopes with a dominant performance.

World Cup Selection Adds Pressure

The Ahmedabad match carried added importance for India. It served as the final chance to test combinations before the T20 World Cup squad announcement.

Suryakumar Yadav remained under scrutiny. His strike rate has dipped since taking over as captain. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill’s form also raised questions amid strong competition.

Bumrah Strengthens Bowling Attack

Jasprit Bumrah returned to the XI and made an immediate impact. His presence sharpened India’s pace attack. Additionally, Varun Chakaravarthy troubled South Africa’s batters again.

India used spin smartly on a surface that offered assistance. As a result, South Africa struggled in the middle overs.

South Africa Search for Answers

South Africa may rethink their batting order. Aiden Markram could return to the top. Meanwhile, Dewald Brevis will look to convert starts into big scores.

Lungi Ngidi impressed with the new ball. Ottneil Baartman also bowled with discipline. However, the batting lacked consistency.