The Green Park stadium in Kanpur witnessed a thrilling clash between India and South Africa in the first game of the ODI series. Electing to bat first, South Africa did really well to scrape their way to 303-5 in their allotted 50 overs. The primary reason behind South Africa getting to a total in excess of 300 was once again AB De Villiers’ unadulterated brilliance, who took the Indian pacers to the cleaners.
India, however, were dented while bowling as R. Ashwin trudged back after struggling from a side strain. That took a massive toll on the Indian plans as Ashwin’s overs had to be filled in by the other bowlers, who were thrashed by the South Africans.
India looked solid in the chase as Rohit Sharma played some breathtaking shots. Shikhar Dhawan was unfortunate to be given out LBW on a ball that was clearly sliding down leg. Rahane, who was promoted to number 3, did well by scoring 60. Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, zoomed past his 100, with Virat Kohli at the other end. With Kohli’s dismissal, South Africa gained momentum and India seemed to be struggling, with Dhoni not able to connect the big hits.
Imran Tahir’s double-wicket over which sent back Rohit and Raina was a big blow for India. Dhoni, who struggled with cramps, tried his best but was dismissed by Rabada in the last over. South Africa held their nerve to win the first ODI in style as Radaba kept his cool.
With the game being a thrilling encounter, we now go through some of the statistical highlights for the first ODI.
1. 150 – Rohit Sharma’s innings was the highest individual score against South Africa in a run chase.
2. 21.84 – Imran Tahir’s bowling average in ODIs for bowlers who have taken at least 50 wickets. It is the third best.
3. 65.6 – Rohit Sharma’s average while batting at home.
4. 4 – AB De Villiers has 4 ODI centuries in India in his last 6 innings.
5. 3 – This was South Africa’s third consecutive win against India in India.
6. 284.2 – AB De Villiers’ strike rate after scoring his half century.
7. 65 – The number of runs South Africa scored in the last 5 overs.