1st T20I: India is having a great run, says Suryakumar after team’s 101-run win over South Africa
Cuttack, Dec 9 (LatestNewsX) – India’s T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav was delighted with how his side handled South Africa in the opening game that wrapped up at Barabati Stadium on Tuesday. He added that India is riding a “great run” as the team heads toward the 2026 T20 World Cup.
India batted first and posted 175 /6, largely thanks to Hardik Pandya’s unbeaten 59, before the bowlers locked things down. Both pacers and spinners shared the spoils, and the hosts dismissed the visitors for a mere 74 – the lowest total England have chased in a T20I.
Speaking after the match, Suryakumar praised the batsmen for pulling off a remarkable turnaround. “We were 48‑3 after 6.3 overs, but we clawed back to 175,” he said. He noted the steady play of Hardik, Axar, Tilak and the cameo of Jitesh came to finish the job. “India is having a great run,” he added.
He also highlighted the bowling attack. “Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah started off nicely, taking early wickets, and then Hardik’s return from injury was handled well by both side,” Suryakumar remarked. He complimented Pandya, who not only claimed a wicket on his first delivery but also finished on 59* after an impressive knock that turned the match.
“With 7–8 batters, there will be days when 2–3 don’t perform, but the others cover it up, and that’s how T20 cricket works,” he explained. His confidence in the team’s depth and fearless attitude set the tone for the series.
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