India showcased their cricket prowess with a dominant performance against South Africa, securing a resounding 243-run victory at Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens. This exceptional win extended India's unbeaten streak to eight matches in the ODI World Cup, solidifying their status as the team to beat in the tournament.

Ravindra Jadeja emerged as the standout performer for India, claiming a remarkable five-wicket haul that left the South African team in disarray. What was anticipated as a closely contested battle between the top two teams in the points table turned into a one-sided affair, with the Proteas encountering difficulties right from the outset.

South Africa faced early setbacks when Mohammed Siraj dismissed Quinton de Kock for a mere 5 runs, setting the stage for a challenging start at 6/1. Despite a cautious approach by Temba Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen, the required run rate steadily climbed.

Ravindra Jadeja entered the attack in the ninth over and made an immediate impact, dismissing skipper Bavuma for 11, further undermining South Africa's position at 22/2. In the subsequent over, Mohammed Shami joined the effort, removing Aiden Markram for 9. Jadeja and Shami continued their destructive form, and South Africa found themselves struggling at 40/4.

The Proteas' woes continued as wickets tumbled at regular intervals. Jadeja claimed his fifth scalp, ultimately bundling out South Africa for a mere 83 runs. India's bowling unit, including Kuldeep Yadav and Shami, delivered a masterclass, dismantling South Africa's batting lineup.

In response, India showcased their batting prowess, with Virat Kohli celebrating his 35th birthday by equalling Sachin Tendulkar's record of 49 one-day international centuries. Kohli reached this milestone in 119 balls, featuring 10 fours. Rohit Sharma contributed to a strong start, scoring 40 runs in just 24 deliveries.

This commanding victory reaffirmed India's status as the only team to officially secure a spot in the knockout stages of the ICC World Cup 2023. Despite missing star all-rounder Hardik Pandya due to injury, India's performance in both batting and bowling has been exceptional. South Africa, with their impressive opening pair and consistent performances, has also left a mark in the tournament.

The showdown between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens was highly anticipated and lived up to expectations, with India's comprehensive win underscoring their supremacy in the World Cup.

Picture Credits - Hindustan Times