India fast bowler Harshit Rana was visibly delighted after making an immediate impact, removing South Africa opener Quinton de Kock in his opening over of the third T20I in the five-match series. The match is taking place on Sunday, December 14, at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, with the breakthrough coming on the second ball of the second over of the Proteas’ innings.
Operating from around the wicket, Harshit delivered a good-length ball that jagged back sharply, beating de Kock and striking him on the pads. On-field umpire Virender Sharma had no hesitation in raising his finger, and despite a short discussion with captain Aiden Markram, the left-hander chose not to challenge the decision. You can watch the video here:
https://www.bcci.tv/bccilink/videos/mbGa5b9F
The left-hander had a forgettable stay at the crease, scoring only one run from three balls. De Kock’s wicket reduced the visitors to 1/2 after 1.2 overs.
Harshit Rana’s Double Blow Puts South Africa Under Pressure In 3rd T20I
Put in to bat first, South Africa made a shaky start as India’s Arshdeep Singh struck in the opening over, dismissing Reeza Hendricks for a three-ball duck. Harshit Rana then kept the squeeze on in the second over by sending Quinton de Kock back for just one.
Rana soon added another breakthrough, removing the dangerous Dewald Brevis for two off seven deliveries, leaving the Proteas struggling at 7/3 after 3.1 overs. At the time of writing, South Africa were 11/3 after four overs, with Aiden Markram (5) and Tristan Stubbs (3) holding the fort.
The contest holds significant importance for both teams. India began the series in emphatic fashion with a commanding 101-run win in the opening match on December 9 in Cuttack. South Africa responded strongly in the second game on December 11 in New Chandigarh, claiming a 51-run victory to draw the five-match series level at 1-1 after two encounters.
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