South Africa match India’s highest ODI chase in thrilling run pursuit
In a stunning display at Raipur, the Proteas hunted down 359-equalling the biggest total ever successfully chased against India in one-day internationals
A Historic Pursuit That Left India Stunned
The Proteas pulled off a stunning victory in the second ODI at Raipur, which equaled the record for the highest successful run chase against India in ODI history. The pursuit of 359-a target that once seemed insurmountable-will go down as one of their most memorable white-ball achievements.
India had earlier posted a commanding total, powered by centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli, giving the hosts what looked like a winning cushion. But the Proteas showed remarkable composure and intent right from the start of their innings, never allowing the scoreboard pressure to overwhelm them.
Aiden Markram anchored the innings with a brilliant hundred, supported by useful partnerships among the rest of the batting group. The South African middle and lower order, many of them unknown or unproven, ensured the momentum never dropped and got their team through the tight phases of the chase confidently.
Eventually, South Africa reached 362 for 6 in the 50th over, sealing a four-wicket win and levelling the series in emphatic style. The chase now stands beside Australia’s effort in 2019 as the highest target India have ever conceded in a losing cause in ODIs. It also means a third time for South Africa to hunt down 350 or more in this format – only a few elite teams in world cricket have been able to do so.
This match, once again, brought forth the reason why ODI cricket is so very unpredictable, even with big scores being made. India’s brilliant batting effort came to naught as their bowling failed to curb the Proteas’ fearless attitude. The win showed the depth, patience, and ability of the Proteas to perform under immense pressure, while it told India that even the biggest totals are no longer safe in modern ODI cricket.
