India vs South Africa Highlights, 1st T20I: India thrash South Africa by 101 runs in a ruthless all-round performance

India vs South Africa Highlights, 1st T20I: Hardik Pandya marked his return to international cricket in style as India crushed South Africa by 101 runs in the opening T20I. Coming back from a quadriceps injury, Pandya produced a breathtaking unbeaten 59 off just 28 balls. His innings, filled with powerful strokes, included six fours and four cleanly struck sixes that lifted India to a competitive 175 for six after being asked to bat first. India had earlier stumbled, but Tilak Varma and Axar Patel contributed important runs to steady the innings before Pandya changed the tempo completely.South Africa’s chase never gained momentum. Arshdeep Singh struck early to remove de Kock, and the rest of India’s bowlers continued to tighten the pressure. Wickets fell in clusters, with Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel and Shivam Dube all joining the wickets column. Dewald Brevis tried to hold the innings together but his 22 could not alter the outcome, as South Africa were bowled out for just 74 in 12.3 overs, their lowest-ever T20I total. The match highlighted India’s strong all-round display, with Pandya’s explosive batting and disciplined bowling setting the tone for the series.