India opened their T20 International series against South Africa with a dominant 101-run victory in the first match. Hardik Pandya’s exceptional all-round display, coupled with a relentless bowling attack, was instrumental in securing the win and a 1-0 series lead. This performance serves as a strong statement of intent for India’s T20 World Cup 2026 ambitions.
Defending a total of 176, India’s bowlers were in inspired form from the word go. Arshdeep Singh immediately put South Africa on the back foot with two early wickets. Despite attempts to consolidate by Markram and Dewald Brevis, the Indian attack kept striking at regular intervals. Axar Patel contributed by dismissing the South African captain, and Hardik Pandya celebrated his return to bowling by taking a wicket off his first ball, removing David Miller.
The Proteas batting order collapsed under pressure, unable to build any meaningful partnerships. Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah, who reached his 100th T20I wicket in this match, further tightened the noose. South Africa was ultimately bowled out for a mere 74 runs, marking their lowest-ever score in the format. The combined bowling efforts ensured a comprehensive victory for the hosts.
In the first innings, India’s top order struggled on a pitch that proved challenging. Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav were dismissed early. Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma steadied the ship, but scoring was difficult. The innings was anchored by Hardik Pandya’s brilliant unbeaten 59, which included multiple boundaries and sixes, guiding India to a respectable 175/6. Shivam Dube and Jitesh Sharma also played crucial cameo roles towards the end of the innings.
The focus now shifts to the second T20I, scheduled to be held in New Chandigarh.