India's first T20I against South Africa was a washout but finally there was some action with the 2nd T20I in Gqeberha as the hosts defeated the Men In Blue by five wickets (via DLS method). After rain washed away in the first game, the second game too, was interrupted by rains as the visitors could not complete the full quota of 20 overs. The Proteas were then set a revised target of 152 (DLS) and they chased it down convincingly despite losing wickets. (As It Happened | Scorecard | Cricket News)
With the action now turning to New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, India will look to level the series after a dissapointing turnout in the second game with the ball. As for Aiden Markram's men, they will look to keep the pressure and continue their fine form from Gqeberha.
As both teams look to take seize the initiative in the bilateral series, here are three key battles that could define the outcome of the game:
Shubman Gill Vs Marco Jansen
Marco Jansen scalped the wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal in the 2nd T20I but he did pose problems for both the openers in Gqeberha. Jansen went for 39 runs in three overs but his pace and bounce could trouble the Indian batters especially Shubman Gill. The Indian batter scored a golden duck and would look to turn things around in Jo'burg. This match-up will be one mouth-watering affair.
Ravi Bishnoi Vs Reeza Hendricks
The Indian spinner, who has topped the ICC T20I rankings, was made to sit out in the 2nd T20I but could return to action in Jo'burg. As for Reeza Hendricks, the opening batter blasted 49 (27) as his innings set-up a resounding win for the Proteas in Gqeberha. Bishnoi's spin wizardry could be one to watch out for especially against Hendricks as India look to level the series.
Suryakumar Yadav Vs Gerald Coetzee
Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav turned up in style with a splending 56 (36) but his innings was cut short in the 2nd T20I. As for the Proteas, Gerald Coetzee scalped three wickets (3/32) and was stranded on a hat-trick chance. Coetzee, who would have his suitors in the upcoming IPL Auction, would want to finish on a high and his battle with 'SKY' would really be a fiesty affair.
