Suryakumar Yadav's ton propels India to 106-run win over Proteas

Electing to bat first, India faced an early setback at 29-2 courtesy of Keshav Maharaj's double blow, but an inspiring partnership between opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and captain Suryakumar, who notched up his fourth T20I century, resurrected the innings. The duo's 112-run alliance set the stage for a formidable total of 201-7.

Suryakumar's innings unfolded as a tale of two halves. Initially restrained by some astute Proteas bowling, he unleashed a spectacular assault in the latter part, accumulating seven fours and eight sixes to reach the century milestone in just 55 balls. His final tally stood at 100, concluded by a stunning catch from Matthew Breetzke on the deep square leg boundary.

In pursuit of a challenging target, South Africa faltered against the relentless spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja. Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav's career-best figures of 5-17 wreaked havoc, and Jadeja contributed with 2-25, dismantling the Proteas for a paltry 95 runs.

Celebrating his 29th birthday, Yadav exhibited his bowling prowess, claiming the last four wickets in a mesmerizing spell that spanned just 2.5 overs. The Proteas' struggle was epitomized by captain Aiden Markram's valiant effort of 25 runs and David Miller's 35-run contribution, but the Indian spinners ensured a swift conclusion to the match.

This resounding win levelled the series at 1-1, following a rain-marred opener in Durban and South Africa's triumph in the second match in Gqeberha.

Looking ahead, the focus shifts to the ODIs, with the Wanderers set to host the first of three matches on Sunday, featuring the traditional 'Pink Day' fixture. The stage is set for another thrilling contest as India carry the momentum from their T20 success into the One Day Internationals.

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