Arshdeep Singh, who was named the ‘Player of the Match’ for guiding India to a comfortable victory against South Africa with his maiden five-wicket haul in ODIs, acknowledged skipper KL Rahul for his support during a phase of bowling inconsistency in the preceding T20Is. The left-arm paceman revealed that Rahul motivated him to make a strong comeback and even set the target of achieving a five-wicket haul after he took two crucial wickets in the second over.
The 24-year-old speedster successfully met his captain’s expectations, delivering an outstanding five-star performance that dismantled the Proteas, resulting in the visitors being bowled out for 116.
Arshdeep Singh Revealed How KL Rahul Motivated Him To Pick His 5-Wicket Haul
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Arshdeep said:
“Feel a little sore but loving the movement. I learnt about the altitude only after a few overs when I was running out of breath. Had to build on from there. (Last year to here) Personally, it feels good because when you play you have a dream to play for the country. I am enjoying my role and want to thank Rahul bhai as well. He said I should come back strongly and aim for a five-for. (how does this set you up for the next 2 games?) It is about enjoying the game. When we go to Gqeberha, we need to know what will work there and look for a good result there too,”
Arshdeep And Avesh Unleashed Havoc On SA Batters
Opting to bat first after winning the toss on a seemingly bowler-friendly pitch, Proteas skipper Aiden Markram’s decision backfired as the Indian team, led by pacers Arshdeep and Avesh Khan, unleashed havoc on them.
Only De Zorzi managed to score a decent 28 runs off 22 balls (with two fours and two sixes), and Phehlukwayo contributed 33 runs in 49 balls (with three fours and two sixes). These were the only notable scores as the South African innings collapsed within 28 overs.
Arshdeep (5/37) and Avesh (4/27) emerged as the standout bowlers for India, claiming a total of nine South African wickets. Chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav took the final wicket. India effortlessly achieved the modest target, comfortably chasing it down with half-centuries from debutants Sai Sudarshan and Shreyas Iyer.
