IMAGES from the fourth and deciding T20I played between South Africa and India in Johannesburg on Friday
IMAGE: Tilak Varma congratulates Sanju Samson. Photograph: James Oatway/Reuters
In a commanding display of cricket, Sanju Samson’s astounding stroke-play harmoniously complemented Tilak Varma’s quiet genius, as India showcased their dominance by registering a formidable 135-run victory over a hapless South Africa in the fourth and final T20 International match held in Johannesburg on Friday. This emphatic win not only clinched the series for India but also silenced any remaining critics.
With this victory, India concluded their T20I campaign for the year on a remarkable high note, achieving an incredible win in every bilateral series and securing the coveted T20 World Cup, resulting in an astonishing victory percentage of 92.
IMAGE: India’s Tilak Varma celebrates after reaching his century. Photograph: James Oatway/Reuters
Samson’s inspiring knock of 109 not out off 56 balls was expertly complemented by Varma, whose explosive 120 not out came from only 47 balls, propelling India to a staggering total of 283 for 1 in their allotted 20 overs, marking their highest score ever on foreign soil.
IMAGE: Team India players celebrate. Photograph: James Oatway/Reuters
During South Africa’s pursuit of the target, Arshdeep Singh shone brightly, capturing 3 wickets for just 20 runs with an exceptional opening spell that dismantled the home side, leaving them reeling at a dismal 10 for 4. Eventually, South Africa was bowled out for a mere 148 runs in just 18.2 overs, succumbing under the pressure applied by the Indian bowlers.
Among the multitude of records shattered during this match, the standout achievement was the unprecedented feat of both Samson and Varma scoring centuries in the same T20I innings. They forged an extraordinary partnership, accumulating 210 runs off a mere 93 balls for the second wicket, setting a new benchmark for India in T20 Internationals.
IMAGE: Sanju Samson celebrates his century. Photograph: James Oatway/Reuters
Samson reached his century in just 51 balls, while Varma accomplished the feat in only 41 balls, showcasing their formidable batting prowess. Notably, this remarkable performance has seen Samson score three T20I centuries in his last five innings, despite battling inconsistency that has included two ducks.
With such brilliant performances, Samson is sure to create quite the selection dilemma for Ajit Agarkar when the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant return to the T20I setup. For Varma, securing back-to-back T20I centuries in South Africa further enhances his reputation, reflecting the selflessness of captain Suryakumar Yadav, who willingly vacated his beloved batting position to allow Varma the chance to flourish.
IMAGE: South Africa’s Lutho Sipamla celebrates the wicket of India’s Abhishek Sharma. Photograph: James Oatway/Reuters
Abhishek Sharma earned praise for his explosive innings of 36 runs off just 18 balls, contributing significantly during the Powerplay by striking four massive sixes, ensuring India capitalized effectively during the early overs.
On a batting-friendly surface that offered excellent bounce, the Indian batters unleashed an unprecedented barrage, smashing a remarkable total of 23 sixes throughout their innings. Samson’s nine sixes just fell short of Varma’s impressive tally of ten maximums.
It also didn’t help South Africa that their premier fast bowler Gerald Coetzee appeared to be nursing an injury, leading to a less-than-stellar performance from medium pacers Andile Simelane (0/47 in 3 overs) and Lutho Sipamla (1/58 in 4 overs), who were ruthlessly targeted by the Indian batsmen. The Indians launched 10 sixes from Simelane and Sipamla combined, further establishing India’s dominance.
IMAGE: Sanju Samson in action. Photograph: James Oatway/Reuters
As Coetzee was called upon for a second spell, the damage was already irreparable, indicated by the frantic South African bowlers who delivered a staggering 17 wides while attempting to stifle the momentum generated by the Indian batsmen.
The South African bowlers failed to adapt their strategy, consistently pitching the ball at length, which proved to be a grave mistake as both Samson and Varma capitalized on every mistake, sending balls soaring over extra cover and straight down the ground with minimal effort.
IMAGE: Tilak Varma plays a shot. Photograph: James Oatway/Reuters
Not even the likes of Keshav Maharaj and Tristan Stubbs could escape unscathed, as the Indian duo showcased their full range of shots, including cuts, pulls, slog sweeps, and reverse sweeps. Every inch of the playing field bore witness to the destructive power wielded by Samson and Varma.
In a particularly memorable moment, one of Samson’s powerful shots struck a female spectator, capturing the attention of the TV cameras as she was seen visibly distressed and in pain. Samson’s approach was characterized by strength, gently shuffling towards leg-stump to loft length balls, while Varma employed a more elegant style, effortlessly countering spinners with inventive shots that attacked the fielders in all directions.
As they approached their milestones, they exhibited a slight slowdown in scoring, but by then, they had already dealt a significant blow to the Proteas’ hopes of victory.
What tactics did Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma employ to dominate the South African bowling attack during the match?
**Interview with Cricket Analyst, Ravi Menon, on India’s Dominant Victory Against South Africa**
**Interviewer**: Welcome, Ravi! What an incredible match we witnessed in Johannesburg, with India crushing South Africa by 135 runs. What are your thoughts on this commanding performance?
**Ravi Menon**: Thank you! It was indeed a remarkable display from the Indian team. Both Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma delivered innings that will be remembered for a long time. Their partnership of 210 runs for the second wicket highlighted their superb batting skills and ability to capitalize on the batting-friendly conditions.
**Interviewer**: Samson scored 109 off just 56 balls, and Varma scored an explosive 120 not out off 47. Was their approach a key factor in this win?
**Ravi Menon**: Absolutely. Their aggressive yet calculated approach not only took advantage of the pitch but also demoralized the South African bowlers early on. Reaching centuries at such rates showcases their confidence and skill, and it certainly set the tone for the innings.
**Interviewer**: They both broke records as well, with both scoring centuries in the same T20I innings. How significant is this achievement in the context of T20 cricket?
**Ravi Menon**: It’s a monumental achievement! Scoring two centuries in a T20 match is rare and speaks volumes about their partnership and understanding on the field. It raises the stakes for Indian cricket, especially as we look ahead to future tournaments. Their feat could inspire a new generation of batsmen in T20 format.
**Interviewer**: Also, what did you make of the Indian bowlers, especially Arshdeep Singh, who took 3 wickets for just 20 runs?
**Ravi Menon**: Arshdeep’s performance was excellent! His ability to strike early and dismantle the South African batting order was crucial. The pressure he applied at the start left South Africa reeling, making it almost impossible for them to chase down that massive total.
**Interviewer**: With the T20I season wrapping up for India this year, how do you see their future, especially with players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant expected to return?
**Ravi Menon**: It definitely creates a selection headache for coach Ajit Agarkar! Samson’s recent form has been outstanding and he’s put forth a solid case for continued selection. Varma’s back-to-back centuries also add to the competition. The squad depth is impressive, which can only benefit India as they build towards future tournaments.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, how do you think this victory will impact the overall morale of the Indian team?
**Ravi Menon**: Winning the series in such a commanding fashion will boost the team’s confidence significantly. It shows their ability to perform under pressure, especially in foreign conditions. As they conclude their T20 campaign on a high note, this will set a positive tone as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
**Interviewer**: Thanks for your insights, Ravi! Exciting times ahead for Indian cricket!
**Ravi Menon**: Thank you! It certainly is an exciting time, and I look forward to seeing how the team evolves.
