Cuttack, December 9, 2025: India delivered a commanding performance in Cuttack as the team defeated South Africa by 101 runs in the opening T20I of the series. The hosts posted 175 for six after a late surge led by Hardik Pandya, and then bowled out the visitors for a mere 74 in just 12.3 overs.
Hardik Pandya powered India’s innings with an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls, shifting the momentum decisively in the final overs. His aggressive stroke-play pushed India to a competitive total after a steady start from the top order. South Africa struggled to contain India’s acceleration despite brief spells of controlled bowling.
India’s bowlers then took complete charge of the match. Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel dismantled the South African batting lineup with disciplined pace and turn. South Africa stumbled early, losing wickets in clusters, and never recovered from the pressure. Dewald Brevis offered the only notable resistance, but the lack of partnerships left the visitors with no path back into the contest.
India’s strong all-round display gave them a confident start to the five-match series, while South Africa will look for answers after one of their most underwhelming T20 chases.
