Pacers Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan orchestrated a remarkable batting collapse of South Africa in the 1st One Day International (ODI) at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
Arshdeep previously under scrutiny for not taking a wicket in his first three ODI appearances for India, made a significant impact by dismissing Reeza Hendricks for an eight-ball duck.
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Arshdeep continued to impress with a stellar new ball burst, claiming the wickets of Van der Dussen, Tony de Zorzi, Heinrich Klaasen, and Andile Phehlukwayo.
This remarkable performance marked Arshdeep's maiden five-wicket haul in ODI cricket, transforming his statistics from zero wickets in three ODIs to a career-best 5/37 in his first four games in the 50-over format. It was also a first five-wicket haul by an Indian bowler in South Africa in ODI cricket.
Thanks to Arshdeep's bowling masterclass, South Africa collapsed for a mere 116 runs in 27.3 overs. At the post-match presentation, Arshdeep credited KL Rahul for motivating him to achieve the fifer, expressing gratitude for the support.
What did Arshdeep Singh say?
"I feel a little sore (now) but loving this moment. Thank God and the team management. It was a little different than the normal grounds as I was running out of breath. I would thank KL Rahul bhai as he said you have to come back and get that fifer. I guess it is about enjoying this moment," Arshdeep said.
"Personally it feels good, I am enjoying my role. Our team's main motto is adaptability. Whether I open or bowl first-change, I'm happy representing my country. It was quite hot as well. I was playing a 50-over game after a year. But it all paid off, and after my five-for, I feel very fresh."
What next for India?
India will lock horns against hosts South Africa in the second ODI on Tuesday at St George's Park in Gqeberha.
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