Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan's Deadly Pace Power India Beat South Africa In 1st ODI

It was an easy win for Team India as speedsters outclassed South Africa in the first ODI of the three-match series at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg on Sunday. Pacers Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan wreaked havoc Proteas batting lineup as Singh claimed a fifer, whereas Avesh Khan complimented him with a four-wicket haul.

The new ball bowlers restricted Aiden Markram's side to a low total of only 116 runs in 27.3 overs. Facing the lethal bowling attack, South Africa's seven batsmen could not make it to a double-digit score, including three dismissals for a duck.

The chase of a target of 117 runs was an easy task for the long Indian batting lineup. The men in blue emerged victorious in only 16.4 overs after losing two wickets. Young guns Sai Sudharsan (55) and Shreyas Iyer (52) scored quick half-centuries to take the first lead.

Man of the match, Arshdeep Singh, after the match, said, "I feel a little sore. Loving this moment. Thank God and the team management. It was a little different than normal grounds as I was running out of breath. Personally, it feels good, I am enjoying my role. I would thank KL Rahul bhai as he said you must return and get that fifer. I guess it is about enjoying this moment. (On the upcoming matches) When we go there, then focus on what will work there."

Skipper KL Rahul also expressed a little relief after gaining the first lead over the hosts stating, "I am happy. Good to have a win under the belt. Completely different to what we expected. The plan was to get the spinners in the game. The boys did well. The boys did well to stay disciplined. The ball kept moving around. There is a lot of cricket being played. You prioritize one format. For now, it is Tests and T20s. Everyone is performing and trying to do well for the country. Good chance for them to get a taste of international cricket."

The next two matches of the series are slated to be held on December 19 and December 21 at the St George's Oval and Boland Park.