India seal ODI series with Sanju Samson's masterclass against Proteas

By SABC Sport
21st December 2023

In a thrilling culmination to the ODI series, India emerged victorious with a resounding 78-run win over South Africa at Boland Park in Paarl.

Sanju Samson's brilliant century, his first for India, laid the foundation for a commanding total of 296-8, ultimately securing the series 2-1.

Samson's meticulous innings of 108 runs from 114 balls, featuring six boundaries and three sixes, showcased a perfect blend of caution and aggression. His exceptional performance set the tone for India's dominance, with contributions from other key players amplifying the team's success.

South Africa's chase began promisingly with an opening partnership of 59 runs in under nine overs. However, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh's precise away-swinging delivery claimed Reeza Hendricks (19), initiating a steady downfall for the Proteas.

Axar Patel and Washington Sundar displayed bowling prowess, dismantling crucial South African wickets. Captain Aiden Markram's spirited fightback was curtailed by an impressive reverse-sweep off Sundar, landing into the safe gloves of KL Rahul for 36 runs. The dismissal of in-form Tony de Zorzi (81), trapped lbw by Arshdeep, was a turning point, sealing South Africa's fate.

Heinrich Klaasen (21) and David Miller's (10) departures further solidified India's grip on the match. Arshdeep Singh (4-30) emerged as the wrecker-in-chief, orchestrating key dismissals that limited South Africa to 218 in 45.5 overs.

Earlier in the match, India's top order faced challenges adapting to the pitch's pace. Opener Rajat Patidar (22) fell victim to left-arm seamer Nandre Burger, but Rinku Singh's aggressive 38 off 27 balls, along with Samson's century, steered India to a competitive total.

Despite some middle-order hiccups, India managed to amass 93 runs in the final 10 overs, a crucial factor that ultimately made the difference in the series-deciding match.

The ODI series showcased a roller-coaster of performances, with India dominating the first match at the Wanderers and South Africa bouncing back at St. George's Park.

The final showdown at Boland Park, characterized by Samson's masterclass, solidified India's claim to victory in the series, leaving cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipating future clashes between these cricket powerhouses.