NEW DELHI: Indian pacers
Arshdeep Singh
and
Avesh Khan
wreaked havoc on
South Africa
's batting lineup, bowling them out for a mere 116 in the first ODI on Sunday.
Playing their first 50-over game post the World Cup final, the Indian pace duo exhibited a masterclass, leaving the formidable Proteas batting order looking vulnerable on a track that provided ample assistance.
Scorecard: India vs South Africa, 1st ODI
Arshdeep, a left-arm pacer from Punjab, delivered a magical spell, claiming a five-wicket haul (5/37 in 10 overs) and silencing critics who had questioned his consistency in the shortest format.
Avesh, too, demonstrated menacing pace, finishing with impressive figures of 4/27 in 8 overs. The duo seemed to draw inspiration from their senior counterparts, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah.
South Africa, playing at the 'Bull Ring' - a ground traditionally favorable to them in white-ball cricket, saw their innings crumble in just 27.3 overs. The Indian pacers, especially Arshdeep, made early inroads into the Proteas top-order, securing four wickets within the first Powerplay.
Reeza Hendricks (0) was dismissed as he dragged an angled delivery back onto the stumps, while Rassie van de Dussen (0) fell victim to a ball that darted back unexpectedly.
Tony de Zorzi
(28 off 22 balls) attempted aggressive shots, but Arshdeep showcased his variation, claiming crucial wickets.
However, the highlight was Arshdeep's delivery that dismissed Heinrich Klaasen (6). The ball, slightly back of length, turned into a vicious in-dipper, clipping the leg stump bail, leaving the batsman bewildered.
Avesh Khan's express pace continued to trouble the Proteas, with skipper Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, and Keshav Maharaj falling prey to the relentless pressure.
Andile Phehlukwayo (33) provided some resistance coming in at No. 8, guiding the home team past the 100-run mark. However, Arshdeep, in his second spell, completed his five-wicket haul, as India's fringe pacers showcased their prowess in the series opener.
The Indian batsmen now have the task of chasing down the modest target to take an early lead in the series.
(With inputs from PTI)
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