South Africa Fall Behind in Series After Seven-Wicket Defeat to India

South Africa suffered a seven-wicket defeat against India in the third T20I of the ongoing five-match series in Dharamshala. With the win on Sunday, the hosts India took a 2–1 lead in the series.

After winning the toss, India captain Suryakumar Yadav opted to bowl first, a decision that paid off handsomely for the home side. South Africa’s batting lineup lost momentum early and failed to recover, as they were bowled out for just 117 runs in 20 overs. Arshdeep Singh struck in the very first over, dismissing Reeza Hendricks for a duck, before Harshit Rana removed Quinton de Kock soon after.

In the middle overs, Varun Chakaravarthy sent back Donovan Ferreira (20) and Marco Jansen, tightening India’s grip on the match. Kuldeep Yadav wrapped up the innings in the final over, claiming the wickets of Anrich Nortje (12) and Baartman in quick succession. Hardik Pandya reached a significant milestone by dismissing Tristan Stubbs (9) to register his 100th T20I wicket.

Chasing a modest target, India were aggressive from the outset. Opener Abhishek Sharma provided a brisk start with 35 off 18 balls, including three fours and three sixes. Shubman Gill played a composed knock of 28 off 28 deliveries. Later, Tilak Varma (25*) and Shivam Dube (10*) remained unbeaten to guide India to victory, with Dube striking the match-winning boundary. India reached 120 for 3 in just 15.5 overs