In a match filled with intensity and fireworks, South Africa defeated India by four wickets to level the series 1-1 in Raipur after chasing down a mammoth 358/5.
The second ODI showcased fearless batting from both sides but the Proteas held their nerve to pull off one of the most stunning run-chases in recent ODI history.
India’s Big Total and Early Control
Kohli & Gaikwad Power India Forward
Batting first, India took charge immediately. A classy century from Virat Kohli combined with a blazing ton from Ruturaj Gaikwad formed a massive 195-run partnership aggressive strokeplay mixed with excellent rotation of strike.
Rahul’s Finishing Touch
Captain KL Rahul added an unbeaten 66, pushing India beyond 350, a total that looked extremely challenging on a surface improving under lights.
India looked perfectly placed to wrap up the series… but cricket always leaves room for twists.
Also Read : Kohli Marks 84th Century
South Africa’s Chase: Tempered Brilliance and Resilience
Markram Leads with a Captain’s Knock
Determined and composed, South Africa chased with a clear plan:
- Bat deep
- Minimize risks
- Use the dew advantage smartly
Aiden Markram’s brilliant 110 anchored the innings and kept the pressure firmly on India.
Support from Breetzke & Brevis
Valuable half-centuries from Matthew Breetzke and Dewald Brevis ensured the momentum never slipped.
In the final overs, calm nerves and calculated hitting sealed the chase finishing 362/6 with a handful of balls remaining.
This became one of South Africa’s highest successful ODI run chases away from home, a jaw-dropping turnaround in a match India once seemed to control.
Also Read : South Africa’s Monumental Win Over India
Key Turning Points : Where India Lost the Plot
1) Late Slowdown Cost Them
India slowed drastically in the last 7–8 overs, losing crucial momentum.
2) Dew Took Over
South Africa used the wet outfield perfectly, restricting spin and easing strokeplay.
3) Bowling Under Pressure Failed
India struggled to pick wickets at the death and leaked boundaries at key moments.
Execution under pressure remains a critical learning area ahead of the decider.
What This Win Means for the Series
Proteas Bring the Fight
With this four-wicket win, South Africa draw level:
India 1 – 1 South Africa
A thrilling final in Visakhapatnam now awaits the perfect finale to a fiercely contested series.
Lessons for India
- Death bowling improvements needed
- Maintain aggression throughout the innings
- Tighten fielding in crunch moments
Also Read : Jemimah Rodrigues to Miss Remainder of WBBL 2025
Final Thoughts
South Africa defeated India by four wickets to level the series 1-1 in Raipur, a headline that reflects the drama, courage and cricketing excellence of the match.
Fans will now turn their attention to the final clash, where both teams will enter with renewed fire and expectations of another explosive contest.
The stage is set. The decider awaits.
