In the high-octane third T20I clash between South Africa and India played at the new Wanderers Stadium, in Johannesburg, the former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra criticized the umpiring standards after a contentious decision went against India, giving a second chance to South Africa’s David Miller. The southpaw appeared to have edged a delivery from Ravindra Jadeja, sparking a fervent appeal from both bowler and wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma.
Despite the compelling appeal, the umpire remained unmoved, denying India a crucial breakthrough. Adding to India’s woes, the Decision Review System (DRS) was unavailable due to technical glitches, allowing David Miller to survive the scare. Chopra’s critique extended beyond this incident, highlighting broader concerns about the umpiring standards in South Africa and beyond.
“Umpiring in SA is..And it’s not an isolated case tbh. #IndvSA,” Chopra wrote on his ‘X’ handle.
Here’s Aakash Chopra’s latest tweet on ‘X’:
Umpiring in SA is 🫣
And it’s not an isolated case tbh. #IndvSA
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) December 14, 2023
Despite the umpiring controversy, the on-field action witnessed an impressive display by India as they levelled the series against South Africa with a dominant 106-run victory in the final T20I. Suryakumar Yadav stole the spotlight, showcasing his batting prowess with a scintillating century. After being put in to bat, India posted a formidable total of 201 for seven.
All-round effort takes India home in Wanderers
South Africa, in response to a colossal target, crumbled under pressure, managing only 95 runs before being bundled out. Kuldeep Yadav, celebrating his 29th birthday, shone brightly with a career-best performance, claiming a five-wicket haul, and dismantling the opposition’s batting lineup. Suryakumar Yadav‘s blazing knock, marked by eight sixes and seven boundaries, culminated in his fourth T20I century off just 55 deliveries.
However, his innings got cut short as he fell victim to a catch at deep square leg in the final over, bowled by Lizaad Williams. Despite his departure, India’s dominance remained intact, sealing a convincing win. Mr. 360’s absence due to a left ankle injury sustained while fielding didn’t deter India’s performance, with Ravindra Jadeja assuming leadership responsibilities and contributing significantly to South Africa’s collapse with figures of 2 for 25 in three overs.