India Crush South Africa by Nine Wickets to Seal ODI Series 2–1 in Visakhapatnam

India wrapped up the ODI series with a commanding 9-wicket victory over South Africa in the decisive 3rd match in Visakhapatnam on Saturday. A stunning top-order batting made 271 an easy chase for India. Hosts crossed the finish line in just 40 overs and walked into the upcoming T20I series with immense confidence. This victory was amazing for the Indian team as they lost in the 2nd ODI despite a strong total. 

Jaiswal Leads the Charge With a Breakthrough Ton

Yashasvi Jaiswal played a mature but fantastic knock of his career, showing class that Indian fans enjoyed throughout the match. He reached his maiden ODI century with a firm punch through extra cover, and he never looked unsettled through the innings. His unbeaten 116 gave India both momentum and calm as he dictated the innings with clean shot-making and sharp rotation. 

His footwork stayed precise, and his stroke selection remained disciplined. The young opener punched the gaps with intent, punished short balls early, and maintained a steady scoring rhythm that left South Africa’s attack hopeless.

Rohit Set the Tone and Kohli Completed the Job

Rohit Sharma matched Jaiswal’s fluency during the powerplay and drove India forward with crisp timing. His 75 had authority and balance, and he judged the pace of the pitch within minutes. Their 155-run opening stand built the foundation that South Africa never recovered from. 

“We kept things simple and trusted the plan,” Rohit said during the post-match presentation. “The wicket played true, and the partnership helped us stay calm.”

Virat Kohli joined Jaiswal after Rohit’s dismissal and wasted no time in pushing the scoring along. His unbeaten 65 displayed his hallmark control, especially against spin. The duo kept the tempo steady and never allowed South Africa to create even a brief opening.

“The intent was clear,” Kohli said after the match. “We wanted to close the game with discipline and finish strong before the T20Is.”

De Kock’s Lone Fight Not Enough for South Africa

South Africa’s innings hinged almost entirely on Quinton de Kock, who struck a superb 106 off 89 balls. His seventh century against India came with authority, and he looked in full command during the middle overs. Temba Bavuma provided stability with 48, and the pair added 113 runs for the second wicket after a first-over setback.

However, their innings changed drastically after de Kock’s dismissal. But then, South Africa slipped from a promising 180 for 2 to 270 all out in 47.5 overs, a total that felt short once the pitch settled under the lights.

Kuldeep Yadav's 4 for 41 broke the back of the innings and lifted India at the perfect moment. Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna's 4 for 52 underlined his growing confidence after an expensive start to the innings.

Attention Turns to the Five-Match T20I Series

With the ODI series secured, both teams now shift towards a 5-match T20I India vs South Africa contest starting Tuesday. India enters the shorter format with rhythm and depth, while South Africa faces selection questions after fresh injuries and inconsistent batting.

Player of the series: Virat Kohli

Player of the match: Yashasvi Jaiswal

ODI Series result: India won 2-1