The first match of the T20 series was played at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Team India batted first after losing the toss. India scored 175 runs in 20 overs. In reply, South Africa were bowled out for just 74 runs and cruised to a comfortable 101-run victory. After the win, Team India captain Suryakumar Yadav made an important statement at the post-match presentation ceremony. He explained the turning point in the match that turned the match in India’s favour.
What Captain Suryakumar Yadav said
Despite a poor start, Team India managed to score 175 runs in 20 overs. Speaking about this, Team India captain Suryakumar Yadav said at the post-match presentation ceremony, “I said in the toss that we were even at 50-50, but I am very happy to bat first. When you see what the pitch did and what you got in the end: 175 runs, and then a 101-run win, you wouldn’t have imagined it.” I mean, 3 wickets for 48 runs, and then from there to 175… The way Hardik, Akshar, Tilak batted, and the way Jitesh came in and finally played his part, I think that was very important.
We thought we would reach 160 runs: Suryakumar
Happy with the score of 175, Suryakumar Yadav said, At first we thought we would reach 160, but then to reach 175 was unbelievable. See, with 7-8 batsmen, there are days when 2-3 batsmen don’t have a good day, but then the other 4 batsmen cover it, and today they did. Maybe in the next match you will see someone else cover.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav praised Hardik Pandya
Reflecting on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s superb performance, captain Suryakumar Yadav said, I think Arshdeep and Bumrah were the perfect bowlers to bowl to at the start. The way they bowled first after winning the toss, the way they bowled with the new ball, I think Arshdeep and Bumrah were better options, but with the latter coming back from a heart injury, it was also important to look after him and I am very happy with the way he bowled.
Also Read – Jasprit Bumrah Creates History, First Record In Indian Cricket History
