Raipur: South Africa produced a superb run chase to beat India by four wickets in a high-octane second ODI, setting up an exciting finale to the three-match series. The visitors managed to hunt down a stiff target of 359 with four balls remaining, sealing victory at 362/6 in 49.2 overs.
Stand-in skipper Aiden Markram played the anchor role to perfection, compiling a match-winning 110 that steered the chase with confidence and control. His innings included a strong mix of rotation and boundary-scoring that kept South Africa ahead of the required run rate for most of the chase.
Young opener Matthew Breetzke gave the early momentum, striking a fluent 68 to lay the foundation. Dewald Brevis, another rising star, added 54 in the middle overs, keeping the pressure on India’s bowlers with his aggressive stroke play. Solid contributions down the order ensured there were no late hiccups as South Africa crossed the line comfortably in the final over.
Earlier in the day, India recovered from early setbacks to post an imposing 359/5 after being put into bat. The innings was powered by brilliant centuries from Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who stitched together a commanding 195-run partnership for the second wicket.
Gaikwad was the first to reach his hundred, displaying elegant timing and precision on his way to a well-made 105. Kohli followed with his 53rd ODI century — a composed and authoritative 102 that held India’s batting together. Their stand put India firmly on course for a massive total.
India’s finishing push was supported by quick late-order contributions, helping them set what appeared to be a winning score on a track offering little early assistance to bowlers.
However, South Africa’s reply was full of intent and clarity. Their batters maintained a steady scoring rate throughout, capitalizing on loose deliveries and rotating strike effectively. India’s bowlers struggled for breakthroughs at crucial moments and were unable to build sustained pressure, with dew worsening the challenge under the lights.
Despite occasional wickets that seemed to open a window for India, South Africa remained resilient. Markram’s calm presence proved decisive, as he guided the innings deep before departing with the win nearly secured.
The chase now stands as one of the highest successful run chases against India in ODI cricket — equalling Australia’s effort in 2019. The result also ensures the ODI series remains alive, with both sides heading into the final match level at 1–1 and everything to play for.
For India, the defeat overshadowed Kohli’s and Gaikwad’s exceptional centuries and highlighted areas needing attention — particularly the middle overs bowling and the ability to adjust to changing conditions.
The series decider promises to bring even more intensity as both teams aim to carry momentum forward in what is shaping up to be a closely fought campaign.
