Tilak-Sanju Shine as India Crush South Africa in Johannesburg

India, powered by stunning centuries from Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson, thrashed South Africa by 135 runs in the fourth T20I in Johannesburg. With this dominant victory, the reigning T20 world champions sealed the four-match series 3-1. This is India’s largest victory margin against South Africa in T20 cricket.

After winning the toss, India opted to bat first and started explosively. They amassed 73 runs in the powerplay, with Abhishek Sharma scoring a quickfire 36 off 18 balls before being caught by Klaasen off Lutho Sipamla’s bowling.

Sanju Samson was then joined by Tilak Varma, and the duo unleashed a relentless assault on the Proteas' bowlers. South Africa’s bowlers had no answers as the two batters built a mammoth 210-run partnership in just 86 balls.

Tilak Varma smashed an unbeaten 120 off 47 balls, including 9 fours and 10 sixes, reaching his century in just 51 balls. Sanju Samson remained not out on 109 from 56 balls, with 9 sixes and 6 fours. India finished their innings at an imposing 283/1 in 20 overs.

South Africa’s bowling figures reflected their struggles. Marco Jansen, the most economical bowler, had an economy rate of over 10, while Tristan Stubbs conceded 21 runs in his only over. Most others averaged an economy rate of 14-15.

South Africa’s Response

Chasing an almost impossible target of 284, South Africa’s innings faltered from the start. Arshdeep Singh struck early, reducing them to 10/4. A 54-ball 86-run stand between Tristan Stubbs and David Miller provided some resistance, but it was too little too late.

Miller was dismissed for 36 off 27 balls, while Stubbs managed 43 off 29. Marco Jansen played a quick cameo, scoring 29 off 12 balls, but South Africa’s innings folded for 148 in 18.2 overs, falling 135 runs short.

Key Performers

For India, Arshdeep Singh was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets, while Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel took 2 wickets each.

Tilak Varma was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series for his extraordinary performances.

Match Summary:

India: 283/1 (Tilak Varma 120*, Sanju Samson 109*)
South Africa: 148 all out (Tristan Stubbs 43, Marco Jansen 29; Arshdeep Singh 3/28)
Result: India won by 135 runs.