Picture Credit: Twitter
The India and South Africa team after playing in a run feast in Delhi have arrived in Cuttack. Both teams have reached the Mayfair Lagoon in Bhubaneswar and were welcomed amid the sound of Jodi sankha and Ghoda nacha traditional dance.
The hotel has been under preparation for days ahead of the arrival of both the teams and as per the protocol, all staff of Mayfair underwent intensive COVID testing. Similarly, security arrangements have been increased across the hotel for the safety of players and officials.
Talking about the first game of the bilateral season, the Proteas made an incredible comeback after conceding a massive total of 212. Ishan Kishan woke up from his IPL slumber and smashed a scintillating 76 runs from 48 balls with 11 fours and three sixes. Similarly, Hardik Pandya also made a splash on his return to international cricket as he smashed 31 runs in 12 balls with three sixes and two fours.
But the South Africa side strongly retaliated with a quick start from their top three in Quinton de Kock, Temba Bavuma and Dwaine Pretorius. Then the duo of Rassie van der Dussen and David Miller finished the game with a mammoth partnership of 132 runs to win the game. Miller went on to win the Player of the Match award for scoring 64* in 31 balls with five sixes and four fours.
“Just about limiting dot balls and waiting for that loose ball,” Miller
Addressing his performance in the post-match interview, David Miller said, “Obviously, a lot of hard work has gone in over the last few years understanding my game a lot better. You need two players playing a part while chasing. Rassie played phenomenally well at the back end with some big overs. Chuffed with the result.”
“Just try and hang in there was the chat (with Rassie). He was trying to go but he wasn't getting it. Just about limiting dot balls and waiting for that loose ball. Belief (one thing that has transformed his career). Understanding winning more games and more consistency gives you more belief. I am pretty open to bat anywhere. Just want to make a difference”, Miller quoted.