Despite giving a huge target of 212 runs, Team India had to face defeat against South Africa. David Miller and Rasie van der Dussen shared an unbeaten 131 off just 63 balls as the Proteas chased down the target with five balls to spare. The team led by Temba Bavuma has taken a 1-0 lead in the series. Despite the loss, former captain Sunil Gavaskar told two great things for the Men Blue.
The biggest concern for Team India in T20 has been the lack of intent of the batsmen in the powerplay. On Thursday, the new opening pair of Ishan Kishan and Rituraj Gaikwad scored 51 runs for no loss in the first six overs with six fours and two sixes. Gaikwad was dismissed for 23 in the seventh over, but Ishan made 76 off 48 balls.
Talking to Star Sports after the match, Gavaskar praised Ishan’s batting. “He didn’t start well, got a lot of edges and he was playing from the wrong line, but he stayed. Sometimes when the ball is solid it is difficult to middle. But after settling, he scored more than 70 runs and he achieved that very soon.
Gavaskar further said that another good thing for Team India was the return of Hardik as an all-rounder. Batting at number five, Hardik scored an unbeaten 31 off 12 and bowled an over but conceded 18 runs. He said, “Hardik Pandya is coming down and hitting the ball all around. These are really two great things for the Indian team.
Gavaskar said, “Hardik bowling is also a good sign. Yes, he was expensive, but you can’t expect him to fix everything in the first over when he comes to bowl in international cricket after a long time. He can maintain this form, no doubt about it. If India bat in the second innings, he will always be able to finish the game for the team. The shot he played over long off was incredible and amazing. ,