India secured a 135-run victory against South Africa in the fourth T20 international, winning the series 3-1. Tilak Varma scored 120 runs, and Sanju Samson added 109, both achieving centuries in the same innings—a first among teammates in T20 cricket between full member nations. Poor batting from South Africa led to their all-out score of 148, marking their heaviest defeat by runs in T20s.
In a remarkable display of batting prowess, India triumphed over South Africa by 135 runs in the fourth T20 international at the DP World Wanderers in Johannesburg, thereby clinching the T20 series 3-1. The Indian batting duo of Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson both scored unbeaten centuries, with Varma leading the charge with 120 runs off just 47 balls, while Samson contributed 109 runs from 56 deliveries. Their partnership of 210 runs for the second wicket not only set a record for the highest second-wicket stand in men’s T20 internationals but also marked the first instance of two teammates scoring centuries in the same innings between full member nations. This monumental performance propelled India to a formidable total of 283-1 in their allotted 20 overs. In response, South Africa faltered, collapsing to 148 all out in 18.2 overs, resulting in their heaviest T20 international defeat by runs. Arshdeep Singh was exceptional with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for just 20 runs. Varma’s blistering century, achieved in merely 41 balls, ranks as the third-fastest by an Indian in T20 internationals, underscoring his rapid ascent in the cricketing landscape. Previous records held by Rohit Sharma and Sanju Samson now see Varma etching his name into history with remarkable consistency, as this performance follows his unbeaten 107 in the third T20 of the series and directly follows Samson’s record. This match has not only exhibited individual brilliance but also highlights India’s dominance in T20 cricket, especially in comparison to South Africa, which has struggled significantly, particularly in responding to large totals. With India’s remarkable innings, they reinforced their stature in the T20 format, making it clear that they are formidable contenders on the international stage, capable of executing powerful batting strategies and maintaining rigorous control in bowling.
The T20 international cricket series showcases the prowess of teams through explosive batting and strategic play. In this unique format, the emphasis is placed on aggressive batting styles, and achieving high scores in limited overs is often a hallmark of success. India’s recent performance against South Africa embodied this spirit, with players Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson realizing their potential in an unprecedented partnership, setting records that reflect both skill and execution. This match highlighted not only individual capabilities but also strategic team play in high-pressure environments.
In summary, India’s comprehensive victory against South Africa in the fourth T20 international underscored their strengths in both batting and bowling. The centuries from Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson not only propelled India to a record total but also set significant milestones in T20 history. This match exemplified the team’s determination and capacity to perform under pressure, solidifying India’s reputation in international cricket as they continue to evolve as a force in the T20 format.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
