Sudharsan, Rahul shine as Burger's bowling limits India to 211 in ODI

In a thrilling encounter at St George’s Park on Tuesday, India has faced a formidable challenge against South Africa in the second one-day international.

Despite notable performances from Sai Sudharsan and KL Rahul, India was bowled out for 211 as Nandre Burger’s impressive bowling display proved crucial.

Left-arm fast bowler Nandre Burger, in only his third international match, showcased his prowess with the ball, claiming three wickets for just 30 runs.

The 28-year-old left an indelible mark on the match, demonstrating consistent pace and occasional steep bounce. His fiery deliveries, including one clocked at 147km/h, posed a constant threat to the Indian batting lineup.

South Africa, eager to recover from their eight-wicket defeat in the previous match, elected to bowl first on a surprisingly well-grassed St George’s Park pitch.

Burger wasted no time, striking early in the match by dismissing Ruturaj Gaikwad for a mere four runs.

Despite the early setback, opening batsman Sai Sudharsan and captain KL Rahul displayed resilience, forging a crucial third-wicket partnership of 68 runs.

Sudharsan, a 22-year-old with a towering presence, continued his impressive form from his debut in Johannesburg, contributing 62 runs to the total. However, his dismissal at 114 marked a turning point as Lizaad Williams delivered a sharply-lifting ball, catching Sudharsan behind the stumps.

The Indian batting lineup struggled to build substantial partnerships thereafter, with no other batsman crossing the 20-run mark.

South Africa’s bowlers, led by Burger, maintained relentless pressure, limiting India to a total of 211 in 46.2 overs.

South Africa now faces the challenge of chasing down 212 runs for victory. The stage is set for a gripping finale, with India’s bowlers aiming to defend their total and South Africa eyeing a comeback after the first-match setback.

The clash promises excitement and intensity as both teams vie for supremacy in this enthralling one-day series.