South Africa stunned India with a four-wicket win while chasing 359 in the second ODI in Raipur. They got home in 49.2 overs to level the three-match series at 1-1.
India had posted a strong 358 for 5 after centuries from Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad. But a wet outfield and heavy dew made bowling tough in the second innings and South Africa made the most of it.
Markram leads confident chase
Aiden Markram played the anchor role with a quiet 110 off 98 balls. It was the first century by a visiting South African opener in India since 2015. He varied the stroke early and then opened as the ball aged.
He added 46 runs with Temba Bavuma to keep the start steady. His score of 68 with Ryan Breetzke kept the chase moving at a safe pace. Later, Dewald Brevis hit 54 off just 34 balls and the momentum shifted even more. His clean strike under relief pushed India onto the back foot.
India struggled to control the flow of runs as the ball became harder to grip. Several bowlers lacked their height and the visitors continued to look for boundaries.
Kohli previously scored 102 off 93 balls. It was his 53rd ODI century and another reminder of his steady form. Gaikwad made 105 and gave India a smooth platform. KL Rahul scored an unbeaten 66 to help India finish strongly.
India’s total of 358 looked safe at the halfway mark. But South Africa matched it shot for shot. Their chase of 359 is now the second highest in an ODI played in India. The only bigger one remains India’s 360 chase against Australia in 2013.
Highest chases in India in ODIs
| Scoring | Team | They will resist | Location | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 360 runs | India | Australia | Jaipur | 2013 |
| 359 runs | Australia | India | Mohali | 2019 |
| 359 runs | South Africa | India | Raipur | 2025 |
| 351 runs | India | Australia | Nagpur | 2013 |
| 351 runs | India | England | Pune | 2017 |
The series now heads to the decider, with both teams knowing that one strong night can change everything.
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