INDIA DOMINATE PROTEAS TO TAKE 2–1 LEAD

India has bounced back in style in the third T20 match against South Africa, cruising to a comprehensive seven-wicket win in Dharamsala to take a 2–1 lead in the five-game series.

With an outstanding performance from both bowlers and batters, the hosts made a statement after dropping the second match.

Winning the toss and electing to bowl first, India’s pace attack set the tone early, reducing South Africa to 117 all out on a tricky pitch. Aiden Markram was the lone bright spot for the Proteas with a gritty 61 off 46 balls, but support was thin on the ground, with the rest of the lineup struggling to build partnerships or stay above the run rate.

In reply, India made light work of the chase, reaching 120/3 in just 15.5 overs with plenty of overs to spare. Abhishek Sharma got things flying with a quick-fire 35 off 18, while Shubman Gill added a steady 28 to keep the chase smooth.

Contributions down the order ensured a comfortable finish as India sealed the result with 25 balls remaining.

Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya entered the record books by becoming the first Indian fast bowler to notch 100 T20I wickets and also surpass 1,000 runs, joining an elite group of players worldwide to achieve the rare double.

South Africa now faces pressure as the tour heads to Lucknow for the fourth T20I.

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