Arshdeep Singh showcased a stellar performance, securing his maiden five-wicket haul as India dominated South Africa, securing an eight-wicket victory in the first ODI at Johannesburg’s New Wanderers Stadium. Arshdeep’s remarkable figures of 5/37 in 10 overs were complemented by Avesh Khan’s impressive spell of 4/27 in eight overs, restricting the Proteas to a meager 116 all-out in 27.3 overs.
In response, India comfortably chased down the target, reaching 117-2 in just 16.4 overs, with debutant opener Sai Sudharsan contributing an unbeaten maiden half-century. This triumph grants India a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, with the upcoming matches scheduled in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on Tuesday and Paarl on Thursday.
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Reflecting on their stellar bowling performance in a video shared on BCCI’s social media platforms, Arshdeep humorously attributed his success to a pre-match photoshoot with Avesh. “It feels good, the photoshoot that I did with you (Avesh) has given me a big boost to produce a good performance here,” quipped Arshdeep Singh.
The power of ‘photoshoot’ 😉
Revelling in partnership 🤝
Discussing bowling plans 👌In conversation with #TeamIndia‘s bowling stars from the first #SAvIND ODI – @arshdeepsinghh & @Avesh_6 👍 👍 – By @RajalArora
Watch The Full Interview 🎥 🔽
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 18, 2023
Arshdeep Singh’s impact was evident early on, securing four wickets within the initial ten overs. Reeza Hendricks fell prey to a delivery that he chopped onto his stumps, Rassie van der Dussen was trapped lbw by a deceptive nip-backer, and Tony de Zorzi’s top edge off a short ball found KL Rahul.
Arshdeep Singh continued his brilliance by dislodging Heinrich Klaasen’s leg-stump bail with a delivery that nipped back. His maiden five-wicket haul was sealed when Andile Phehlukwayo succumbed to an lbw while attempting a slog.
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Avesh, acknowledging Arshdeep’s contribution, praised his teammate for setting up the bowlers with his fiery spell. “My job was to bowl wicket to wicket. It feels good; my mindset has been to focus on things that I can control. I want to give my 100 percent in every match,” remarked Avesh, emphasizing his commitment and preparedness in the lead-up to each game.
