South Africa and India are set to renew their rivalry in a four-match T20I series, beginning on November 8. This series marks their sixth bilateral T20I matchup in South Africa, where India has clinched victory in three of the previous five encounters. Led by Aiden Markram, the Proteas will be looking for redemption after narrowly losing to India in the 2024 T20 World Cup final. Meanwhile, under Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy, India will aim to continue their winning momentum.
Top performers and remarkable bowling feats
Both teams have a history of producing world-class bowlers who have delivered match-winning performances. Here, we look back at the top five best bowling figures from the South Africa-India T20I clashes.
5 best bowling figures in South Africa versus India T20I series
Kuldeep Yadav – 5/17
In the third T20I of India’s 2023 tour of South Africa in Johannesburg, Kuldeep Yadav showcased exceptional skills, taking 5 wickets for just 17 runs. His left-arm spin devastated South Africa’s pursuit of a 202-run target, bowling out the hosts for a mere 95.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 5/24
During the first T20I of India’s 2018 South Africa tour, Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s swing bowling dismantled the South African batting lineup. His 5/24 helped restrict the Proteas to 175/9, securing India a 28-run victory and earning him the Player of the Match award.
RP Singh – 4/13
RP Singh played a crucial role in India’s win during the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. With his 4/13, he led India’s attack to restrict South Africa to 116/9 in their chase of 154, ensuring a 37-run win.
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Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 4/13
In the 2022 T20I series in India, Bhuvneshwar Kumar again displayed his expertise, claiming 4 wickets for 13 runs. Although South Africa chased down the target of 149, Bhuvneshwar’s impressive figures highlighted his consistency in high-stakes matches.
Avesh Khan – 4/18
During the same 2022 series, Avesh Khan’s impressive 4/18 in Rajkot dismantled South Africa’s batting lineup, restricting them to 87 runs in their chase of 170, securing an 82-run win for India.
South Africa’s bowling impact
Interestingly, the top five bowling figures are all from Indian bowlers, with South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi ranking close at 7th for his four-wicket haul against India during the 2022 T20 World Cup in Perth. Both teams boast exceptional bowling talent and will look to deliver standout performances in the upcoming series.