India’s second ODI against South Africa in Raipur turned into a heartbreak despite a batting masterclass. Two centuries set up a massive total, yet the match slipped away in the final overs as South Africa held nerve and pulled off a stunning chase.
Strong Batting, Poor Start Early On
India lost Rohit Sharma for 14 and Yashasvi Jaiswal for 22. The innings looked shaky early. Then Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli took charge and restored control with calm shot selection and sharp running between the wickets.
Twin Centuries Lift India to 358
Ruturaj Gaikwad struck 105 off 83 balls. Virat Kohli followed with 102 from 93 deliveries. KL Rahul stayed unbeaten on 66 while Ravindra Jadeja added 24. India finished with a strong total of 358 for five.
South Africa Recover After Early Blow
South Africa lost Quinton de Kock early for eight. Temba Bavuma steadied the innings and scored 46 before Aiden Markram and Dewald Brevis took charge. Brevis hit 54 while Markram played a brilliant knock of 110.
Middle Overs Changed The Game
India failed to apply pressure in the middle overs. South Africa rotated strike well and punished loose balls. Markram stayed in control and ensured the chase stayed on track, finishing the job in 49.2 overs with four wickets remaining.
Fans Furious With Team Selection
After the loss, social media exploded in anger. Fans blamed poor selection and a weak bowling unit. Washington Sundar came under heavy fire, with users calling him ineffective in batting, bowling and fielding and demanding answers over his selection.
Criticism Targets Multiple Players
Fans pointed out he bowled only three overs in the previous match and four in this one. Many demanded Tilak Varma or Rishabh Pant in his place. Prasidh Krishna was compared to Haris Rauf for conceding too many runs.
Pressure On Team Management
Decision makers Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar also faced backlash online. Fans accused them of hurting team balance with baffling choices. With the series now tied, India needs urgent fixes with the ball before the final match.
