Sanju Samson’s Rollercoaster Form

Sanju Samson’s unpredictable run of form continues to stir conversation in cricketing circles. After dazzling with back-to-back centuries in consecutive T20Is, the wicketkeeper-batter has now suffered two successive ducks. Often criticised for not receiving consistent opportunities in the national team, Samson seemed to silence his detractors with his explosive hundreds against Bangladesh and South Africa in the series opener. However, his recent dismissals without scoring have reignited doubts about his reliability. With five ducks in 2024, Samson has joined an unfortunate record alongside Zimbabwe’s Regis Chakabva, who achieved a similar feat in 2022. Remarkably, Samson is also the first player to follow two consecutive T20I centuries with two consecutive ducks.

Tilak Varma Shines as India Posts a Mammoth Total

India delivered a commanding batting display in the third T20I against South Africa, ending their innings at 219/6 in Centurion. Tilak Varma stole the spotlight, hammering his maiden T20I century with an unbeaten 107 off just 49 deliveries, including eight boundaries and seven sixes.

South Africa opted to field after winning the toss, but Aiden Markram’s decision backfired as the Proteas struggled to contain India’s explosive lineup. Despite Marco Jansen’s early breakthrough, dismissing Sanju Samson on the second ball, India recovered quickly. 

Key Partnerships Propel India

Abhishek Sharma, in fine form, partnered with Tilak for a 107-run stand. Sharma’s quickfire 50 off 25 balls, featuring three fours and five sixes, laid a strong foundation. However, his innings was cut short in the ninth over by Keshav Maharaj. Suryakumar Yadav, expected to lead from the front as captain, fell cheaply to Andile Simelane, managing just one run.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya’s cameo (18 off 16) also ended prematurely, leaving Tilak to anchor the innings. Alongside Rinku Singh, Tilak added another 58 runs before Rinku departed for eight. Ramandeep Singh provided a late flourish, scoring 15 off 6 balls and combining with Tilak for a crucial 28-run partnership that pushed India past the 200-run mark.

South Africa’s Bowling Struggles

Andile Simelane and Keshav Maharaj were the standout bowlers for South Africa, picking up two wickets each. Despite their efforts, the Proteas’ inability to stem the flow of runs or break key partnerships proved costly.

The Chase Ahead

With a daunting target of 220, South Africa faces an uphill battle to clinch victory and gain an advantage in the series. The Men in Blue, riding on Tilak’s brilliance and solid partnerships, have set the stage for an exciting second innings. Can the Proteas turn the tables, or will India continue their dominant streak?