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India’s emerging batting star Sai Sudharsan recorded an unbeaten half-century in his maiden ODI game to help India register an eight-wicket win over South Africa in the series opener. India locked horns with South Africa in a thrilling ODI series opener on December 17, Sunday, at the Wanderers Stadium. The teams were coming off a drawn three-match T20I series. India had KL Rahul at the helm of the squad, while Aiden Markram led the hosts.
Earlier in the day, South Africa's skipper won the toss and opted to bat first. India had Sai Sudharsan making his ODI debut. The visiting side proved to be lethal for their counterparts and names including Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, and Sai Sudharsan emerged as the stars for the day.
Starting with the ball, Arshdeep took his first ODI wicket and went on to pick a five-wicket haul while Avesh Khan scalped four wickets. The Proteas' batting lineup surrendered to the terrific bowling prowess and was bundled out at 116. KL Rahul-led side continued their explosive form in the second inning as well and successfully chased the 117-run target in just 17 overs.
Debutant Sudharsan as well as Shreyas Iyer registered their respective half-centuries in the game and chased down the target seamlessly. Arshdeep was named Player of the Match and upon receiving the award he said, “Loving this moment. Thank God and the team management. It is a little different than normal grounds as I was running out of breath. Personally, it feels good, I am enjoying my role.”
Both sides will lock clash in the second ODI on December 19 at St. George’s Oval.
