India vs South Africa 2nd ODI Highlights: IND vs SA,  series draw at 1-1 by Zorzi

St George's Park witnessed a dramatic turn of events as South Africa roared back to form in the 2nd ODI against India, clinching a comfortable 8-wicket victory and levelling the series 1-1. The star of the show was undoubtedly Tony de Zorzi, whose maiden ODI century proved the cornerstone of the Proteas' triumph.

India Falters After Winning the Toss:

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, India struggled to find their rhythm on a challenging pitch. Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sai Sudharsan provided a decent start, but Nandre Burger (3/39) led the Proteas' pace attack to keep them in check. Sudharsan (62) top-scored for India, while skipper KL Rahul (56) made a valuable contribution. However, the rest of the batting line-up failed to fire, and India was eventually bundled out for a modest 211 in 46.2 overs.

Tony de Zorzi batting for South Africa in the 2nd ODI

De Zorzi Steals the Show:

Chasing a modest target, South Africa got off to a steady start with Reeza Hendricks (53) and Aiden Markram (12) putting on a decent opening partnership. But it was Tony de Zorzi who stole the show. The 27-year-old batsman played a composed innings, reaching his fifty in 55 balls and his hundred in 109 balls. He found able support from Rassie van der Dussen (41) and Heinrich Klaasen (28) as South Africa cruised to victory in 37.4 overs, losing just two wickets.


Tony de Zorzi celebrates his century in the 2nd ODI

Key Highlights:

Tony de Zorzi's maiden ODI century was the cornerstone of South Africa's victory.
Nandre Burger was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa, taking 3 wickets for 39 runs.
India's batting failed to click, with only Sai Sudharsan and KL Rahul scoring significant runs.

What it Means for the Series:

With the series level at 1-1, the final ODI in Cape Town on December 22nd promises to be a nail-biter. Both teams will be looking to secure the series win and head into the Christmas break on a high note. The performance of the batsmen, especially the middle order, will be crucial for both teams in the deciding match.

Match Details:

• Venue: St George's Park, Gqeberha
• Series: India tour of South Africa (2023/24)
• Match format: 3-match ODI series, Match 2
• Date: December 19, 2023, day-night (50-over match)
• Result: South Africa won by 8 wickets
• Man of the Match :Tony De Zorzi (SA) 

Players to Watch Out For:

India: Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, and Avesh Khan

South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, and Keshav Maharaj

Live Score Updates:

South Africa completes 50 runs in 12.5 overs: Hendricks and de Zorzi build a steady partnership.

Zorzi completes his first ODI half-century: The Proteas opener reaches his milestone in 55 balls.
1st wicket partnership of 100 runs: Hendricks and de Zorzi provide a solid foundation for South Africa's chase.
Reeza Hendricks departs for 52: Arshdeep Singh provides India with a breakthrough.
Zorzi reaches his maiden ODI century: The South African batsman's dream innings continue.
South Africa won the match by 8 wickets: de Zorzi guides the Proteas to a commanding victory.