After loosing three straight ODI games at their home grounds, South Africa need a boost to raise their morale and confidence against strong Indian batting lineup with Virat Kohli in tremendous form, Dhawan scoring consistently in the matches. Their wrist spinners destroyed South African batting lineup in first 3 ODI’s.
There was no better occasion than pink day to break the shackles. History suggests that South Africa have defeated every opposition on pink day. They have defeated Pakistan by 34 runs in 2013, defeated India and West Indies by 141 and 148 runs in 2013 and 2015. In 2016 and 2017 they have won against England and Srilanka by 1 and 7 wickets. They have a terrific record on pink day.
They were 0-3 in the series and Pink day and return of AB de Villiers in the 4th ODI gave South Africa a new hope.
India have won the toss and elected to bat first. As usual Kohli and Dhawan started brilliantly and have scored 75 and 109 (on his 100th match). Dhoni unbeaten 42 helped India to post 289 after some rain breaks.
South Africa started well in the chase and have made 67-2 in 12 overs and then the rain arrives. After loosing lot of overs, the game was reduced to 28 overs and South Africa needed a total of 202 runs to win the match. AB de Villiers brisk 26 of 18 balls and two consecutive sixes against Chahal laid the foundation of aggressive hitting from South Africa. Chahal’s no ball wicket gave Miller a chance to flourish and he availed his opportunity. Quick fire 39 and 43* form Miller and Klaasen have taken South Africa into commanding position and late cameo from Phehlukwayo sealed win for South Africa.
South Africa have finally won against India in the 4th ODI and now have some confidence going in the remaining two matches.