India, led by KL Rahul, secured an ODI series win against South Africa after a 1-1 draw in the preceding T20I series.
Despite missing key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian team displayed a clinical performance, defeating the home team 2-1 after clinching a 78-run victory at the series decider, held at Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday.
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Sanju Samson scored his maiden international century, marking a significant milestone eight years after his debut which played a key role in helping India put up 296/8 runs on the board batting first.
Arshdeep Singh's exceptional four-wicket haul further contributed to India's success in the contest by restricting the Proteas to just 218.
In leading the team to this triumph, Rahul became only the second Indian captain to secure an ODI series win in South Africa, following in the footsteps of Virat Kohli.
Beyond the stellar performances of Samson and Arshdeep, an amusing incident added a touch of humour to the third ODI.
When South Africa's Keshav Maharaj walked in to bat with the team struggling at 177 for six in 33.2 overs, the speakers at Boland Park played the song 'Ram Siya Ram.' Rahul, who kept wickets, pointed out to Maharaj that this song is consistently played whenever he enters the crease.
"Keashb bhai, every time you come they play this song," Rahul said.
Maharaj acknowledged with a 'yes,' leading to a lighthearted moment as Rahul smiled.
Super Giants banter 😂😂😂 >>>>>pic.twitter.com/k0DxIrRqLN
— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) December 21, 2023
When was the last time India won an ODI series in South Africa?
Before 2023, India last won the ODI bilateral series in 2018. Under the captaincy of Virat Kohli, the Men in Blue slandered South Africa in their backyard. India won the six-match ODI series, 5-1.
Virat Kohli was the Man of the Tournament, having a stellar outing across six games. The then-Indian skipper scored 558 runs in six matches to guide his team to the first-ever ODI series win in South Africa.
MORE: Fans react as Sanju Samson hits maiden ODI century against SA
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