South Africa were all out for their lowest-ever T20 total, 74, as India won the series opener by 101 runs in Cuttack. Hardik Pandya smashed an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls as India posted 175-6 after losing the toss.
South Africa never got their chase going, collapsing from 45-3 to 74 all out in 12.3 overs, with all six Indian bowlers claiming at least one wicket. Their previous lowest T20 total of 87 also came against India, in 2022.
India had lost openers Abhishek Sharma (17) and Shubman Gill (4) cheaply before Pandya revived the hosts from 78-4 in the 12th over. The all-rounder struck four sixes and six fours and was named player of the match.
The five-match series is preparation for the T20 World Cup in India in February. India had won the recent ODI series against South Africa 2-1 after losing the Test series 2-0.
“I had to back my shots. I realised the wicket had a bit of spice. I had to be a bit gutsy,” Pandya said. “It was more about timing the ball, not breaking the ball. I was very satisfied with the way I was batting.”