NEW DELHI: India's series-levelling 106-run triumph over South Africa on Thursday carried a somber note as captain
Suryakumar Yadav
stayed sidelined from the field due to an injured ankle.
In the third over, Suryakumar attempted to halt a shot from Reeza Hendricks off
Mohammed Siraj
in the outfield but ended up hurting his ankle in the process.
Suryakumar immediately grasped his ankle and left the field, assisted by the team's physio.
He did not return for the remainder of the match, and vice-captain
Ravindra Jadeja
took charge as the leader for the rest of the game.
In this thrilling match, left-arm wrist-spinner
Kuldeep Yadav
(5/17), celebrating his birthday, secured his best T20I figures, contributing to India's resounding victory.
Chasing a target of 202, South Africa was bowled out for 95 in 13.5 overs.
The Indian fans might have had their hearts in their mouths even though Suryakumar's SA tour ended with this T20I series, as he was not a part of either ODI or Test squads.
However, the 33-year-old, who was adjudged player of the match and the series, later eased some of those nerves while attending the post-match presentation.
"I am good. I am walking, so it is good. It is not that serious," he told the host broadcaster when asked about the status of his ankle.
"It was wonderful scoring a hundred, and especially when it comes in a winning cause.
"One box we wanted to tick was play fearless brand of cricket. Really happy the boys showed a lot of character."
Talking about Kuldeep, he said, "He (Kuldeep) is never happy with a three-for or a four-for. A perfect self birthday present."
Kuldeep turned 29 on Thursday.
(With PTI Inputs)
English (US) ·