Tilak's 100 & Arshdeep's record shattering spell helps India beat SA by 11 runs, seal series 2-1

India rebounded from their previous defeat with an impressive batting display in the third T20I of their four-match series against South Africa, held at Centurion’s SuperSport Park. On Wednesday, November 13, Tilak Varma starred with a magnificent unbeaten 107, his maiden T20I century, as India set a challenging target of 219. This score marked a milestone, making India the first team in five years to defend a target at this venue, breaking a long-standing streak favoring teams chasing.

After losing the toss, India was sent into bat, with South African captain Aiden Markram banking on recent trends at SuperSport Park, where teams chasing had won the last five T20Is. However, India’s batters dominated the game, with Tilak Varma leading the charge. His brilliant innings were supported by Abhishek Sharma’s brisk half-century and a spirited cameo by debutant Ramandeep Singh, guiding India to an imposing total of 219 for 6 in their 20 overs.

South Africa’s chase had its moments, largely due to Heinrich Klaasen’s aggressive 22-ball 41 and Marco Jansen’s electrifying 54 off just 17 balls. Jansen, who also impressed with two economical wickets earlier, launched a thrilling onslaught in the 19th over, scoring 26 runs off Hardik Pandya and keeping South Africa’s hopes alive. However, despite his heroics, India’s bowlers held their nerve, securing an 11-run victory to take an unassailable 2-1 series lead.

Arshdeep Singh was instrumental in India’s defense, breaking records with his disciplined bowling and keeping South Africa’s hard hitters in check. His efforts, alongside the bowling unit’s consistency, helped India halt South Africa’s momentum and achieve this rare win while defending a total in Centurion.