New Delhi, In the aftermath of a rain-marred second T20I against South Africa, India finds itself grappling with bowling concerns as they gear up for the final showdown in Johannesburg. Despite a valiant effort in posting a competitive total of 180/7, India’s bowlers faced challenges containing South Africa’s aggressive batting lineup.
Led by Reeza Hendricks’ powerful 27-ball 49, South Africa chased down a revised target of 152 from 15 overs with ease, securing a win with five wickets and seven balls to spare. The uncluttered aggression of batsmen like Hendricks, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, and David Miller poses a formidable challenge for India’s bowlers.
Tilak Varma, whose quick 20-ball 29 kickstarted India’s innings, acknowledged the difficulties faced by bowlers in the challenging conditions. He highlighted the unexpected behavior of the ball due to the wet outfield, impacting the effectiveness of spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav.
While left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi impressed with figures of 4-0-18-1, India’s fast bowlers faced criticism. Arshdeep Singh, in particular, struggled, conceding 31 runs in two overs. Varma expressed the team’s determination to improve bowling execution, especially under pressure.
Looking ahead to the third T20I, India aims for better performance from its fast bowlers. The uncertainties around the third and fourth pace options add intrigue, with contenders like Arshdeep, Mukesh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, and Shardul Thakur vying for a spot. The reliability of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj adds stability, but the supporting roles remain uncertain.
With only four T20Is before the T20 World Cup, India’s bowlers face a crucial opportunity to assert their claims. Arshdeep and Mukesh, given the chance on the current tour, aim to counter the potent South African batting unit in the final T20 at the Wanderers.
