Controversial Dismissal Clouds India’s 101-Run T20I Triumph Over South Africa

India thrashed South Africa by 101 runs in the first T20I of the five-match series at Cuttack, but the match was not without controversy. The spotlight fell on a disputed decision against South Africa’s Dewald Brevis, raising debates among fans and experts alike.

The Controversial Moment

The incident occurred on the second ball of the 10th over. Jasprit Bumrah bowled a fast delivery targeting the off-stump, and Brevis attempted to play it in the air. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav took a sharp catch at extra cover, and the on-field umpire referred the decision to the third umpire.

Replays suggested that Bumrah might have overstepped the crease, potentially making the delivery a no-ball. However, the third umpire ruled the ball legitimate, giving Brevis out. At the time of his dismissal, Brevis had scored 22 runs off 14 balls, including three fours and a six.

Bumrah’s Milestone Amid Controversy

Despite the debate, the wicket marked a historic milestone for Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed his 100th T20I wicket. With this achievement, he became the fifth bowler in international cricket history to take 100 wickets in all three formats, joining elite company including Shakib Al Hasan, Tim Southee, Lasith Malinga, and Shaheen Afridi.

Bumrah finished the match with 2 wickets for 17 runs, contributing significantly to India’s dominance.

India’s Batting Brilliance

Chasing the first innings total of 175, India had set a challenging target despite a tricky pitch. Hardik Pandya led the charge with a blistering 59 off 28 balls (6 fours, 4 sixes), while Tilak Varma (26), Axar Patel (23), and Abhishek Sharma (17) stabilized the innings at critical junctures.

From South Africa’s side, Lungi Ngidi bowled well, taking 3 wickets for 31 runs, but the target proved too steep.

South Africa’s Record Low Score

Chasing 176, South Africa crumbled to 74 all out in just 12.3 overs, marking their lowest-ever T20I total. Previously, their lowest was 87 runs against India in Rajkot in 2022. Apart from Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy took 2 wickets each, while Axar Patel claimed 2 wickets for just 7 runs, sealing India’s comprehensive victory.