Johannesburg, (UNI) India sealed a dominant 135-run win over South Africa in the fourth T20I at the Wanderers, clinching the series 3-1 in style on Friday.
Chasing an imposing target of 284, South Africa were bowled out for just 148 in 18.2 overs, with Arshdeep Singh leading the charge by taking 4 wickets.
The Indian batting, however, stole the show as Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma put on a batting masterclass. Samson smashed an unbeaten 109 off 56 balls, while Varma dazzled with 120 off 47 balls. Their partnership of 210 runs set a new record for the highest T20I partnership by Indian batsmen, driving India to a world-record total of 283/1.
Samson, who became the first player to score three T20I centuries in a calendar year, was in imperious form. His knock, featuring 6 fours and 9 sixes, included a memorable flat six over long-off against Marco Jansen in the 19th over.
Varma, with 9 fours and 10 sixes, proved his worth by following up his maiden T20I century with another brutal display. The pair’s power hitting left South Africa’s bowlers reeling, with Jansen and Sipamla struggling to make an impact.
Despite a few missed chances in the field, India capitalised on every mistake.
South Africa’s chase never looked likely as Arshdeep Singh’s early wickets put them on the back foot. Arshdeep’s spell was exceptional, taking 3 wickets for 20 runs, including a golden duck for Heinrich Klaasen and a brilliant hat-trick ball opportunity.
As the match progressed, India’s spinners, led by Varun Chakaravarthy (2/42) and Ravi Bishnoi (1/28), kept the pressure on. Despite some late fireworks from David Miller (36), Marco Jansen (29*), and Gerald Coetzee (12), South Africa’s hopes were dashed as they were bundled out for 148.
This win not only sealed the series but also sent a message of India’s T20I dominance. The team’s explosive batting, combined with clinical bowling, ensured a resounding victory and a well-deserved series triumph.
