Varun Chakravarthy’s remarkable performance nearly swung the game India’s way as he claimed his first five-wicket haul in a close T20I encounter against South Africa on Sunday. While India ultimately fell short by three wickets, captain Suryakumar Yadav lauded Chakravarthy’s standout efforts, which brought India back into contention despite defending a low total of 125.
Chakravarthy’s spin wizardry dismantled South Africa’s top and middle order, reducing them to 66 for 6. However, the host team rallied as Tristan Stubbs (47) and Gerald Coetzee (19) carried South Africa over the line in the 19th over. Speaking after the game, Suryakumar praised Varun’s hard work and resilience.
“To get a five-wicket haul in a T20 game, especially while defending 125, is an incredible achievement. He’s worked tirelessly on his skills, and this stage was well-earned. It was a brilliant performance,” Suryakumar stated during the post-match presentation.
India’s innings on a bouncy track saw them post a modest 126/4 in their 20 overs, with Axar Patel (27) holding the innings together and forming crucial partnerships with Tilak Varma (20) and Hardik Pandya. South Africa, however, managed to keep India’s scoring in check by taking wickets at regular intervals.
Suryakumar admitted that the score wasn’t ideal but was still proud of the team’s spirited bowling effort. “In T20s, you don’t aim for 125 or 140, but I’m proud of the way our bowlers fought back,” he commented.
With two games left in the series, Suryakumar expressed his anticipation for the remaining matches in Centurion and Johannesburg, expecting “a lot of fun and entertainment” as they aim to turn the series around.
