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Rohit Sharma Battles Heat and Pressure: What Led to His Sudden Failure in the ODI Clash?
By CricShots - Dec 3, 2025 2:54 pm
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Nandre Burger delivered a massive breakthrough for South Africa in the second ODI at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, dismissing one of India’s most threatening batters—Rohit Sharma—far earlier than the Men in Blue would have hoped. The left-arm pacer had been troubling Rohit from the very first over, and his persistence finally paid off with a beautifully executed delivery that forced the edge and handed South Africa the early momentum they were desperately searching for.

Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma

Rohit entered this contest with confidence after smashing three consecutive fifties, showcasing vintage form and stability at the top. However, the senior opener couldn’t extend that streak in Raipur, falling for just 14 as South Africa looked determined to level the three-match ODI series.

Having lost the first ODI by a narrow 17-run margin in Ranchi, the Proteas needed early inroads—and Burger stepped up at the perfect moment. Meanwhile, India’s bizarre luck with the toss continued to raise eyebrows. KL Rahul once again came out on the wrong side of the coin, extending India’s streak to 20 consecutive ODI toss defeats.

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Remarkably, this run began right after the heartbreaking 2023 World Cup final loss in Ahmedabad, forming an unusual pattern that fans can’t stop talking about. As expected, South Africa won the toss and elected to field in Raipur, sticking to their strategy of putting early pressure on India.

Burger’s third over was a masterclass in control and planning. After repeatedly bowling in the challenging channel outside off stump, he nearly found Rohit’s edge twice—only for the ball to sneak past short third man for boundaries. But the third opportunity sealed it. The ball, clocking 138.5 km/h, nipped away just enough to draw the outside edge. Quinton de Kock took a sharp catch and immediately appealed, tossing the ball up with conviction.

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Though the on-field umpire wasn’t persuaded, De Kock was certain and urged Temba Bavuma to take the review. UltraEdge confirmed a decisive spike, handing South Africa a priceless wicket.

Rohit’s early exit sparked frustration among many Indian fans, some even calling for his retirement from international cricket. While the Hitman has stepped away from Tests and T20Is, he remains focused on staying fit and competing until the ICC World Cup 2027—his final big mission in Indian colours.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tags batting strugglesheat conditionsIndian cricket analysismatch conditionsODI failureRohit Sharma