By: Tarish Bhatt
South Africa must have got a glimpse of what is to come in the next couple of months, after their thumping defeat in the T20 practice match against India A, moreover with the way they surrendered against not even a second string Indian team.
This was South Africa’s only chance of gathering some confidence ahead of facing India in the three-match T20I series, starting in Dharamsala from October 2. But, after the practice match result, it seems like South Africa would have to climb a mountain when they cross paths with MS Dhoni’s men.
The Indian colts defeated a full-strength Proteas team by eight wickets, with two balls to spare, and made it a one-sided affair despite chasing 190 at the Palam Cricket Ground. However, it was not only India the entire match, but a team like South Africa was expected to dominate the game entirely.
South Africa bowling attack, featuring the likes of Kyle Abbott, Imran Tahir and Chris Morris, could only manage to take two Indian wickets, that too when the result was more or less decided. Apart from Morris, all Proteas bowlers were brutally hammered by Mayank Agarwal and Manan Vohra, and later by Sanju Samson.
Manan Vohra and Mayank Agarwal stitched a 119-run stand, and virtually ended the game with the opening partnership. Mayank, however, was unfortunate to miss out on a well-deserved century, but nevertheless his fifty helped India in sealing the game.
Sanju Samson, later, played a cameo, and after the departure of Mayank ensured that the hosts cross the line without any further hiccups. Marchant De Lange and JP Duminy took a wicket apiece for the Proteas.
Earlier, electing to bat first, South Africa posted an imposing total on the board, and it looked like they would sail to victory without any trouble. This, however, wasn’t the case after the next set of 20 overs.
AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis made a flowing innings for South Africa, while JP Duminy butchered the Indian attack in the slog overs, scoring 68 off just 32 balls.
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