Yashasvi Jaiswal starred with his first one-day international century as India defeated South Africa by nine wickets to clinch the three-match series 2-1 on Saturday.
Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 116, while Rohit Sharma contributed 75 and Virat Kohli added an unbeaten 65, guiding India to their target of 271 in just 39.5 overs.
The victory comes after India lost the preceding Test series 2-0. Both teams now shift focus to a five-match Twenty20 series, starting Tuesday in Cuttack.
South Africa’s Strong Start Falters
Earlier, Quinton de Kock scored his 23rd ODI century, an 89-ball 106, supported by Temba Bavuma’s 48. But South Africa could only manage 270 all out in 47.5 overs. Medium-pacer Prasidh Krishna turned the game in
India’s favor, taking three wickets in three overs, including de Kock, to halt a potential high-scoring innings.
India captain Lokesh Rahul praised the team’s performance after winning the toss, ending a streak of 20 lost tosses in ODIs since the 2023 Cricket World Cup semifinals.
Prasidh Krishna’s spell broke South Africa’s momentum. When the Proteas were 168-2, he trapped Matthew Breetzke for 24 and dismissed Aiden Markram for 1 in the same over. De Kock managed only six more runs after hitting a six before Prasidh removed him, finishing with figures of 3-9.
“It was really hard for me in my first spell. I had to think how to get back,” Prasidh said. “I was under pressure after the last game. It’s a matter of keeping it simple and being calm.”
Kuldeep Yadav then cleaned up the tail, taking 4-41 to restrict South Africa to 270.
Jaiswal and Kohli Lead Commanding Chase
India’s reply was powered by Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma, who shared a 155-run opening partnership. Rohit scored 75 off 73 balls before misjudging Keshav Maharaj’s delivery and being caught at deep square leg.
Jaiswal reached his century off 111 balls, while Kohli raced to an unbeaten 65 off 45 balls, marking his 128th ODI half-century. Kohli was named player of the series after scoring 302 runs in three matches.
“Playing freely this series has been the most satisfying for me,” Kohli said. “There are times you feel nervous or doubtful, especially in batting. I’m glad to still contribute to the team.”