Source NDTV sport
Dharamshala, December 14, 2025 – India’s pursuit of a modest 118-run target in the 3rd T20I against South Africa began with an electrifying start from opener Abhishek Sharma before his fiery innings was cut short. However, a solid and measured partnership alongside Shubman Gill has kept the Men in Blue firmly in command at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.
Chasing the low total set by the Proteas—who were bowled out for just 117 thanks to a disciplined all-round bowling effort by India—Abhishek Sharma took the attack to the South African bowlers from the very first ball.
Abhishek’s Blazing Knock
Abhishek, looking to quickly erase the memory of the previous match’s loss, started the chase with a magnificent six off Lungi Ngidi’s first delivery. He continued his onslaught, smashing four boundaries and three sixes in a whirlwind knock of 35 runs off just 17 balls. His aggressive intent saw India cross the 50-run mark in just the fourth over, establishing a commanding run-rate.
The opening partnership reached 60 before South Africa finally found a breakthrough. Pacer Corbin Bosch got the crucial wicket when Abhishek skied a cross-seam delivery, which was brilliantly caught by a back-pedalling Aiden Markram, running from mid-off to long-off. Abhishek’s dismissal came with India’s score at 60/1 in the sixth over.
Gill Stays Solid
Despite the loss of his partner, Shubman Gill has remained steadfast at the other end. The young vice-captain, who has been under pressure for a big score, played a supporting role during Abhishek’s rampage and has since looked composed, ensuring the momentum doesn’t shift.
Gill, alongside the incoming Tilak Varma, is now focused on calmly navigating the rest of the chase. At the time of reporting, India are cruising toward the target, which would give them a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Earlier in the match, the Indian bowlers were exceptional, restricting the South African side to 117. Captain Aiden Markram was the only Proteas batsman to show significant resistance, scoring a fighting 61 off 46 balls. Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav all contributed heavily, taking two wickets each.
India’s comfortable position is a testament to the comprehensive bowling performance, and the quick-fire opening stand has made the chase a formality. The focus now shifts to Gill and Varma to seal the victory.
