South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma led from the front as the hosts started the three-match ODI series in a convincing manner after the Proteas defeated the Indian team by 31 runs in the first ODI of the series.
Batting first, the South African team registered a formidable total of 296 for 4 wickets in 50 overs.
A solid partnership
The hosts had two early wickets within 58 runs and were under severe pressure. But a stunning partnership of 204 runs off 184 deliveries between skipper Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen helped the Proteas to avert the initial danger. Van der Dussen went on to score 129 runs (not out) off 96 balls and was later was announced as the Man of the Match as well. His innings was comprised of 9 boundaries and 4 sixes.
Bavuma on the other hand, scored a superb ton (110 off 143 balls) as well. The skipper felt that they had played a “close to perfect game” against India and his partnership with Van der Dussen was the “decider.”
“We played close to a perfect game, that’s quite hard in 50-over cricket. We can take a lot of confidence. I struggled throughout the innings, Rassie seemed like batting on another wicket. That partnership was the decider. I tried to partner him as much as I could. Another good debut for him (Jansen), we feel he can take wickets with the new ball. He’s growing from strength to strength and it’s nice to see. Aiden is always an option with the ball, especially with the new ball. He’s been doing a fantastic job,” said the South African captain.
Andile's two wickets
South African pacer Andile Phehlukwayo picked up two wickets in the first ODI and while talking about him Bavuma said that “he is a big player within the team.”
“Andile was good, he understood the situation. He knew what he needed to do. He’s a big player within the team. It’s good to see him take charge. Spinners have been great. Shamsi - we are trying to use him differently, using him at the death and he’s doing it well. Spinners have been good. Nice to have Quinny back, nice to see him smile. He’s a big player for me, he’s a big player for the team, his energy and his experience helps us a lot,” Bavuma added.
