In the opening ODI against South Africa at Wanderers, Indian cricketers Arshdeep and Avesh led a remarkable bowling performance to secure a significant victory in the series’ first match

India commenced their ODI series against South Africa with a commanding eight-wicket victory at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The match, held on Sunday, December 17, was highlighted by the outstanding bowling performances of Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan. Together, they claimed nine wickets, contributing to South Africa’s collapse at 116 runs, their third-lowest ODI score against India. In response, India comfortably chased down the target in 16.2 overs, thanks to debutant Sai Sudharsan’s unbeaten 55 and Shreyas Iyer’s 52, putting India ahead 1-0 in the three-match series.

Arshdeep, aged 24, showcased his skill from his very first over, dismissing Reeza Hendricks for a duck, followed by Rassie van der Dussen in the next delivery, leaving South Africa at a precarious 3/2 in the second over. Arshdeep went on to claim a total of five wickets, marking his first five-wicket haul in international cricket.

Avesh Khan also had a remarkable day, ending with figures of 4/27. Though he narrowly missed a five-wicket haul, his performance significantly impacted the game. Kuldeep Yadav contributed with the dismissal of Nandre Burger for 7 runs, rounding off a dominant bowling display by India.

The next match in the series is scheduled for Tuesday, December 19, at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, where India aims to secure the series. India’s previous tour to South Africa in 2022 ended in a 3-0 defeat. With an eye on the bowling lineup, India might consider including either Arshdeep or Avesh in the Test series as a potential replacement for the injured Mohammed Shami.