South Africa- India Series
Varma’s maiden century makes difference in high-scoring game against SA
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South Africa all-rounder Marco Jansen delivered a breathtaking display of power-hitting, nearly pulling off a miraculous comeback for his team but the Proteas ultimately fell short, losing by 11 runs to India in the third T20 International at SuperSport Park, Centurion, on Wednesday night.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, South Africa chased a formidable 219/6, courtesy of a spectacular century from Tilak Varma.
Varma, who walked in during the first over, remained unbeaten on 107 off just 56 balls, hammering eight fours and seven sixes.
He built a crucial 107-run partnership for the second wicket with opener Abhishek Sharma, who smashed a quick 50 off 25 balls (3 fours, 2 sixes) to lay the foundation for India’s innings.
In response, the Proteas managed 208/7 in their 20 overs. Marco Jansen led the charge with a blistering 54 off just 17 balls, smashing four fours and five sixes, bringing South Africa tantalizingly close to an incredible win before they ran out of steam.
The victory gave India a 2-1 lead in the series, setting up a must-win scenario for the hosts in the final T20I at the Wanderers on Friday night.