Missed Opportunities And Tactical Brilliance: India’s Win Over South Africa In 3rd T20I

India secured a lead in the four-match T20I series against South Africa with an 11-run win in Centurion on Wednesday, November 13. This victory was highlighted by Tilak Varma’s incredible maiden international century, making him the standout performer for the team.

India made some interesting tactical decisions for this game, including giving Ramandeep Singh his international debut in place of Avesh Khan, resulting in a lineup with only two fast bowlers. Despite the limited pace options, the Indian bowlers held their own, though the performance wasn’t without some missed opportunities. Marco Jansen nearly turned the tide with a strong all-round effort, keeping the hosts in the chase.

Let’s take a closer look at India’s approach, highlighting two missed opportunities and a key success that shaped the outcome of this match.

India’s Win Over South Africa In 3rd T20I

1. Missed Opportunity: India Didn’t Utilize a Sixth Bowler

One of India’s strengths under Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy has been using a sixth and sometimes even a seventh bowling option. However, in this match, India didn’t give debutant Ramandeep Singh a chance to bowl, despite fielding just two specialist pacers.

Conditions in Centurion were favourable for batting, which may explain the decision. Still, India missed an opportunity to see how Ramandeep could perform under pressure in a real game. Testing young all-rounders like him in bilateral series could provide valuable insights without risking a major loss.

2. Game-Changer: Promoting Tilak Varma to No. 3 Was a Bold and Successful Move

Tilak Varma’s promotion up the order proved to be a turning point. Following Sanju Samson’s early dismissal, India made the unexpected choice to send Tilak in at No. 3 instead of the captain. Varma seized the moment, scoring a memorable century that helped India set a competitive total.

Though the reasoning for his promotion is unclear—perhaps to give him more exposure or to keep left-handed batters in play—Tilak’s knock proved pivotal. This move not only showcased his potential but also set India up for success.

3. Mistake: Sending Rinku Singh Ahead of Axar Patel in the Batting Order

When Hardik Pandya was dismissed in the 13th over, India could have taken advantage of the spin overs by sending in Axar Patel. Instead, Rinku Singh faced two overs from spinners Aiden Markram and Keshav Maharaj and struggled to find his rhythm, managing only eight runs from 13 balls.

Rinku found it challenging to counter both spin and pace, and South Africa capitalized on his difficulties. Going forward, India should consider how to best utilize Rinku’s strengths to fit his ideal role in the team.

Overall, India’s strategies in this match offered a mix of success and areas for growth. The promotion of Varma was a clear win, but balancing the lineup’s batting and bowling responsibilities will be key as they continue their T20I journey.

Also Read: IND vs SA T20I Series 2024: Top Performers Most Runs, Most Wickets After 3rd T20I