South Africa delivered one of their most skilfully executed run-chases in recent memory, hunting down India’s formidable 359-run target with four wickets in hand and only four balls remaining in Raipur. The triumph not only squared the three-match ODI series but also entered the record books as the Proteas’ third-highest successful chase in the format. Remarkably, it also matches the highest total ever chased against India in One-Day Internationals, a feat previously achieved only by Australia in 2019.
The chase required composure, precision, and a deep understanding of tempo—qualities South Africa displayed with near-perfect clarity. At the forefront of their pursuit was Aiden Markram, who produced a masterful century at the top of the order. His 110 from 98 balls was a blend of classical strokeplay and controlled risk-taking. Despite being widely hailed as one of the most technically gifted batters of his generation, this innings marked his first century as an ODI opener, arriving in his 25th outing in that position. The timing could not have been more crucial.
Captain Temba Bavuma offered vital support, piecing together a 101-run stand with Markram for the second wicket off just 96 deliveries. Bavuma’s 46 from 48 balls was not flamboyant, but it was essential: steady rotation of strike, sharp running between the wickets, and a willingness to let Markram dictate the pace. Their partnership stabilised the innings after the early loss of Yashasvi Jaiswal and laid the foundation for a measured pursuit.
Once Bavuma departed, Matthew Breetzke joined Markram and maintained the momentum with assurance beyond his experience. Their 70-run stand off 55 balls showcased smart placement, sensible risk management, and acute awareness of the required rate. Breetzke’s eventual 68 from 64 balls—his seventh half-century in only 11 ODIs—underscored his growing maturity at international level.
The game shifted briefly when Markram fell with the score at 197, prompting a momentary lull. Yet Breetzke and Dewald Brevis resurrected the innings with a dynamic 92-run partnership from just 64 balls. Brevis, often hailed as a generational talent, delivered a sparkling 54 off 34 balls marked by clean hitting and immense confidence. Together, the pair ensured India’s bowlers could not regain control, even as the match approached its tense final phase.
South Africa’s innings was a masterclass in pacing: 51 runs in the opening 10 overs, 118 by the 20th, and a purposeful surge that saw them reach 282 after 40 overs. The departure of Breetzke and a brief injury scare for Tony de Zorzi threatened to unsettle the chase, yet the lower order remained calm. Corbin Bosch applied the finishing touches with a brisk, unbeaten 29 from 15 balls, sealing a chase that will be remembered for its poise and precision.
Earlier, India had posted an imposing 358 for five, powered by centuries from Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Kohli reached his 53rd ODI hundred from 90 balls, eventually scoring 102 off 93 deliveries. It was also his 84th international century, bringing him closer to Sachin Tendulkar’s iconic tally of 100. Gaikwad, equally impressive, compiled a fluent 105 from 83 balls. Together, they added 195 for the fourth wicket after India’s openers, Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal, fell cheaply.
Brief Scorecard
India: 358/5 (Kohli 102, Gaikwad 105)
South Africa: 362/6 (Markram 110, Breetzke 68)