India outclass South Africa to clinch the series

India clinched the three-match ODI series 2-1 with a commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the third and final ODI in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.

Batting first, South Africa were bowled out for 270 in 47.5 overs. In reply, India chased down the target in just 39.5 overs, losing only one wicket.

South Africa’s innings was built around a 113-run second-wicket stand between Quinton de Kock and captain Temba Bavuma. De Kock struck a brilliant century, scoring 106 off 89 balls with eight fours and six sixes. However, once the partnership was broken, the visitors kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Prasidh Krishna (4-66) and Kuldeep Yadav (4-41) were the pick of the Indian bowlers.

Chasing the target, India dominated right from the start. Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal put on a solid 155-run opening stand. Sharma made 75 off 73 balls before getting dismissed. Jaiswal was then joined by Virat Kohli, and together they added an unbeaten 116-run partnership to seal the victory.

Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 116 off 121 balls, hitting 12 fours and two sixes. Kohli played an explosive knock of 65* off 45 deliveries.

India reached 271 for 1 in 39.5 overs to secure a thumping nine-wicket win and take the series.