World Cup 2019: Three reasons why India defeated South Africa

Modified Jul 23, 2022 05:11 IST

#1 Rohit Sharma’s composed century

India knew they would cruise to a victory if one of their batsmen scored a century. Rohit Sharma was that man. He scored an unbeaten 122 to help his side reach the target with six wickets in hand.

Sharma’s toughest test was at the start of India’s innings when a fired-up Kagiso Rabada gave it his all in search of an early wicket. India scored only 13 runs off the first five overs, with Rabada beating the bat on several occasions. The paceman got Shikhar Dhawan (8 runs) out the next ball. Rohit, though, smashed 14 runs off Rabada’s next over.

He combined for a 91-run partnership with Kahul Rahul for the third wicket, which ended South Africa’s slim chance of victory.

Rohit will be delighted to have scored a century in his first match of the tournament. If the 32-year-old can continue this form, he can finish the World Cup 2019 as one of the most prolific run-scorers.

About the author

Roald Grobler is a positive person who prefers to see the glass as half full.

One of Grobler's biggest passions of the past seven years has been cricket. The 21-year-old is a keen all-rounder who spends his weekends playing club cricket; and some of his most cherished memories have been made on a cricket field.

In his spare time, Grobler loves to write cricket articles for Sportskeeda. After a few years hiatus, he is keen to start writing again and to share the game with you.

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Edited by Aditya Joshi