Centurion: India clinched an 11-run victory over South Africa in the third T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion, taking a 2-1 lead in the four-match series. Invited to bat first, India set a formidable target of 219 for 6, with Tilak Varma scoring his maiden T20I century. In response, South Africa managed 208 for 7, falling short of the chase.
Speaking about his hundred, Tilak Varma, who was adjudged Player of the Match, said, “I couldn't imagine and I cannot put down in words. It was my dream and it was the right time to score a hundred for my team. A kind of a decider in the series. Under the pressure, it was a good knock. All credit goes to captain Suryakumar Yadav. He has given me an opportunity to bat at three. Before the game, he told me that I would bat there. I am really, really happy that he gave me that opportunity.”
“I just wanted to express myself and back my basics. Even under pressure, I followed the basics and backed myself. The wicket was slightly two-paced at the start. When Abhishek was dismissed, it was not easy for the new batter. I was waiting for one partnership and that is what we were talking about. I always believe in my basics. The team management backs every player to have a positive approach,” added Varma.
Expressing his happiness about the win, India captain Suryakumar Yadav said, “What we spoke about in the team meetings, we played the brand of cricket that we wanted to play.”
On being asked about how the young players take on the message of being fearless, he said, “That is what we have been telling them to do - similar to what they have been doing in the nets, for their franchises and for their states. Even if they miss out in a few innings, they back their intent and their game.”
Speaking about if this is the way they want to play the T20 cricket, Surya said, “You can say that because aggression and intent, it is not about just talking. If you step out and take a single, that is what intent is. It has made my job very easier when I watch them bat like that and I feel we are going in the right direction. The energy and intent from everyone, the energy from everyone in the field - first time today that we were six or seven minutes ahead on the over-rate. And what can I say about Tilak Varma. He came to me in Gqeberha, asked me if he could bat at three. I said to him it was his day and to enjoy himself. I knew what he was capable of doing and very happy for him. He is batting at three going forward definitely. He asked for it, he delivered. Very happy for his family.”
