India powered to a massive 101-run win over South Africa in the first T20I of their home series, with Hardik Pandya smashing a brisk 59* off 28 to guide India to 175 for 6 and the bowlers skittling the visitors for just 74, their lowest T20I total ever.
The match began on a tricky, dewy pitch, with India losing the toss and batting first. Shubman Gill and captain Suryakumar Yadav struggled early, falling to Lungi Ngidi, while the middle order failed to accelerate. But Hardik’s entrance at 78 for 4 changed the momentum. He tore through the South African attack with powerful drives, ramps, and sixes, becoming the fourth Indian to reach 100 T20I sixes.
Arshdeep Singh set the tone with the ball, removing Quinton de Kock for a duck and Tristan Stubbs for 14, while spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel exploited the slow pitch. Hardik also chipped in with the ball, dismissing David Miller, and the seamers backed him up. Jasprit Bumrah starred with his tight, disciplined spells, becoming only the fifth bowler in the world to reach 100 T20I wickets across all formats.
South Africa’s innings never recovered after early breakthroughs, with Dewald Brevis top-scoring at 22. The home side’s dominant bowling performance, combined with Hardik’s all-round brilliance, ensured India started their T20 World Cup preparation with a statement win.
India now lead the series 1-0, setting the tone early in what promises to be a fiery contest!
