India set up a chase of 271 runs after South Africa collapsed for 270 in the third ODI at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam.
Despite Quinton de Kock’s brilliant century, the visitors failed to build momentum and surrendered inside 48 overs.
India won the toss and opted to bowl first. South Africa lost Ryan Rickelton in the opening over, but de Kock and Temba Bavuma steadied the innings with a crucial 100-plus stand. De Kock reached his 23rd ODI century, his seventh against India, equalling Sanath Jayasuriya’s record. Bavuma contributed with a composed knock before departing.
Prasidh Krishna turned the game with a fiery spell. After leaking 27 runs in his first two overs, he bounced back strongly, claiming four wickets for 39 runs in 7.5 overs. His spell included the dismissals of Matthew Breetzke, Aiden Markram, and de Kock, shifting momentum firmly in India’s favour.
Kuldeep Yadav then showcased his mastery with the ball. The left-arm wrist spinner dismantled the lower middle order, finishing with figures of 4-41. His accuracy and variations left South Africa struggling to find answers. Together, Krishna and Kuldeep ensured South Africa’s innings ended at 270, a total that looks underwhelming on this pitch.
South Africa’s batting collapse highlighted missed opportunities. Once de Kock fell, the rest of the lineup faltered under pressure. Keshav Maharaj remained unbeaten on 20, but the team failed to cross 300, a score that seemed achievable earlier in the innings.
India now requires 271 runs to win the match and seal the series. With dew less intense than in Ranchi or Raipur, South Africa hopes its bowlers can mount a fight. However, India’s batting lineup, led by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, enters the chase with confidence.
