It was a forgettable start to the ODI series in Johannesburg for South Africa, as they were thumped by India by eight wickets. They would like to forget that and put up a better show in the second match. India will be hoping to continue their winning momentum as the action shifts to St George’s Park in Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth.
Indian pacers, Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan, wreaked havoc at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. Taking advantage of favorable conditions, they dismantled the home team’s top order in less than 15 overs. A late resurgence from Andile Phelukwayo spared South Africa the embarrassment of being dismissed for less than 100, as they managed to reach 116 in 27.3 overs — their lowest ODI total at home. India chased down the target in 16.4 overs, with debutant Sai Sudharsan scoring an unbeaten 55, and Shreyas Iyer also making a half-century.
They are the present. Can Arshdeep and Avesh be the future of India’s white-ball fast bowling?#AveshKhan #ArshdeepSingh #SAvIND
✍️@kannandelhi @Avesh_6 @arshdeepsinghh https://t.co/1rZpAw09wS
— RevSportz (@RevSportz) December 18, 2023
Despite winning the toss, South Africa failed to justify their decision to bat first on what was described as a used wicket, and they will be eager to bounce back as the action shifts to Gqeberha, where they had defeated India in the second T20I.
A new-look Indian team enjoyed a superb start to the series. Arshdeep and Avesh dominated South African batters, taking nine wickets collectively. Arshdeep, who went wicketless in his last three ODIs, took key wickets including those of Rassie van der Dussen and Heinrich Klaasen.
While South Africa’s batting struggles played into India’s hands, the disciplined bowling exhibited by Arshdeep and Avesh was commendable. The Indian pacers didn’t allow the hosts to get away. They didn’t offer freebies and kept things tight, which resulted in wickets at regular intervals.
In response to a sub-par total, India, despite losing Ruturaj Gaikwad early, saw a stellar performance from debutant Sudharsan and Iyer, who forged a match-winning partnership.
Time and Venue details
South Africa vs India, 2nd ODI. 4:30 pm IST. St George’s Park, Gqeberha
Expected conditions
The weather forecast indicates a rain-free encounter. The pitch typically leans towards the drier side, posing challenges for run-scoring in the middle overs.
Possible XIs
India: With Shreyas Iyer withdrawn from the ODI squad for Test preparations, Rajat Patidar or Rinku Singh may step in.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar/Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (c/wk), Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar.
South Africa: Despite the loss, the hosts are unlikely to make changes to their XI.
Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Tabraiz Shamsi.
Match-up
Arshdeep vs Hendricks: Arshdeep got rid of Hendricks in his first over in the last ODI. The opener struggles against the moving ball, especially against the left-armer’s angle.
Match Speak
Growing up as a small kid like everybody, I also dreamt of playing for the country. So with hard work and grit, dreams do come true. Blessed to represent the country and contribute for the team.
Sai Sudharsan, India batter
The thing that stands out for me is the understanding of the conditions and where the threat is. Then you have to land the ball there consistently.
JP Duminy, South Africa batting coach.