Darshna Khudania
India’s 22-year-old explosive batsman Tilak Varma delivered a top-notch performance against South Africa in the 3rd T20I of the four-match series on Wednesday.
Varma scored 107 runs off just 56 balls, which included eight fours and seven sixes. India clinched the match by 11 runs and Tilak was awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ for his blockbuster batting performance.
Tilak expressed his feelings in the post-match presentation and said,
“I cannot put it in words. It was my dream to play for the country and the hundred came at the right time when the team needed it. All credit to Mr. Suryakumar Yadav, our captain. He gave me the opportunity to bat at 3 and told me to express myself. Thanks to him again.”
While praising the youngster, Indian skipper Suryakumar revealed that Tilak came to his room at Gqeberha and asked if he could bat at No. 3.
Sky said, ‘Go out there and express yourself.’ As a result, Tilak delivered an outstanding performance. “Very happy for him and his family,” said Suryakumar Yadav.
Talking about the match summary, South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl. India put a total of 219 runs on board thanks to the contributions of Abhishek Sharma (50 runs off 25 balls) and Tilak Varma (107* off 56 balls).
Although other batters failed to contribute big runs, India managed to put a good total on board. The South African bowling was led by Andile Simelane and Keshav Maharaj, who took two wickets each in the match.
While chasing the target, Proteas batters Heinrich Klaasen and Marco Jansen played notable knocks of 41 runs and 54 runs, respectively. However, Arshdeep Singh took crucial wickets and led India to the victory.
Arsheep picked up three wickets and gave 37 runs in four overs. While Varun Chakaravarthy picked up two wickets during his spell. Now, India leads the four-match T20 series by 2-1 and will face South Africa in the final T20 on November 15 in Johannesburg.