In a thrilling second ODI between India and South Africa on December 19, South African openers Tony de Zorzi and Reeza Hendricks orchestrated a brilliant chase to level the series at 1-1. Pursuing a target of 212 runs, de Zorzi played with composure, achieving his maiden ODI century and steering his team to an impressive 8-wicket victory over India.

De Zorzi's outstanding innings of 119 not out, including nine fours and six sixes, earned him the well-deserved Player of the Match award. His partner, Reeza Hendricks, also contributed with a solid half-century of 52 runs before being dismissed in the 28th over.

Rassie van der Dussen provided valuable support, scoring 36 runs, but fell victim to Rinku Singh in the 42nd over, marking Singh's maiden ODI wicket. For India, only Arshdeep and Rinku managed to secure a single wicket each.

Earlier in the match, India posted a total of 211 runs in 46.2 overs, with half-centuries from opener Sai Sudharsan and skipper KL Rahul. South African pacer Nandre Burger played a crucial role, taking three wickets to disrupt India's batting flow.

The Indian team faced setbacks as Lizaad Williams dismissed Sai Sudharsan and Beuran Hendricks removed Sanju Samson in quick succession. Debutant Rinku Singh showcased promise as he held the crease, while KL Rahul approached his half-century.

South African skipper Aiden Markram's decision to bowl first paid off, as Nandre Burger struck early by dismissing India's opener Ruturaj Gaikwad on the first ball. Despite the challenges, Sai Sudharsan and Tilak Varma cautiously steadied India's innings.

The match saw strategic decisions with Markram winning the toss and choosing to bowl first. KL Rahul expressed interest in batting but highlighted the importance of capitalizing on the overcast conditions. Notably, Rinku Singh made his ODI debut, replacing Shreyas Iyer in the playing XI.

In the first ODI on December 17, India secured an 8-wicket victory over South Africa at the Wanderers Stadium. KL Rahul led the Men in Blue, while Aiden Markram captained the Proteas. The series is now poised for an exciting decider in the third ODI.

Picture Credit - Hindustan Times