In the ongoing T20I series between India and South Africa, the Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy achieved a remarkable bowling feat in the second match at St George’s Park, Gqeberha. Although India lost the match by a narrow margin of three wickets, right-arm leg spinner Chakravarthy stole the spotlight with a sensational five-wicket haul, showcasing his mastery over the art of spin bowling. Chakravarthy’s brilliance adds to a growing list of Indian bowlers who have recorded five-wicket hauls in T20I matches against South Africa.
Here are the three Indian bowlers who have taken five-wicket hauls against South Africa in T20Is
3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s match-winning spell in Johannesburg, 2018
The first Indian to claim a five-wicket haul against South Africa in T20Is was Bhuvneshwar Kumar. His exceptional performance came during the first match of a three-game T20I series held in Johannesburg in February 2018. Bhuvneshwar’s precise right-arm medium-fast bowling dismantled South Africa’s batting line-up, as he took five wickets for just 24 runs in his four-over spell. His efforts led India to a 28-run victory, and he was rightfully awarded the Player of the Match. This achievement not only set a benchmark for Indian bowlers in T20Is but also showcased Bhuvneshwar’s skill and control in challenging conditions.
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2. Varun Chakravarthy’s spin masterclass in Gqeberha, 2024
In the ongoing T20I series, Chakravarthy stunned the South Africa team with a remarkable five-wicket haul in the second match at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. Conceding just 17 runs at an economy of 4.20, the 33-year-old spinner captivated fans with his spin prowess, making him the series’ leading wicket-taker with a total of eight wickets from the first two matches. Chakravarthy’s performance has been a highlight of the series so far, with Indian fans eagerly hoping for more magical spells from the seasoned spinner in the remaining matches.
1. Kuldeep Yadav’s record-breaking spell in Johannesburg, 2023
Another Indian spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, made history by claiming five wickets in the third T20I of a three-match series against South Africa in December 2023. Yadav’s left-arm spin proved lethal as he dismantled the South African batting order, taking five wickets for 17 runs in just 2.5 overs. This stellar performance not only secured a 106-run victory for India but also tied the series 1-1. Kuldeep’s figures remain the best by any Indian bowler against South Africa in T20Is, cementing his place as a standout performer in Indian cricket.