During the intense third Twenty20 International match between South Africa and India at the brand-new Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, former Indian cricket player Aakash Chopra expressed his disapproval of the umpiring standards following a controversial decision that favoured South Africa’s David Miller over India. The bowler and wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma made a strong plea after the southpaw seemed to have edged a ball from Ravindra Jadeja.
India was denied a significant victory because the umpire remained unmoved despite the strong appeal. The fact that David Miller survived the fright was made worse for India by the fact that technical issues prevented the Decision Review System (DRS) from functioning. Beyond this particular episode, Chopra’s criticism raised more general issues with the umpiring standards in South Africa and elsewhere.
“In SA, umpiring is. Actually, it’s not a unique instance. #IndvSA,” Aakash Chopra said on his “X” profile.
India put on an outstanding show on the field as they leveled the series against South Africa with a commanding 106-run victory in the last Twenty20 International, despite the controversy surrounding the umpiring. With a stunning century to demonstrate his batting skills, Suryakumar Yadav took center stage. India, after being asked to bat, amassed a massive 201 for seven.
India wins the Wanderers with a strong all-around effort.
In reply to an enormous target, South Africa gave way under duress, scoring just 95 runs before being bowled out. On his 29th birthday, Kuldeep Yadav lit up the scoreboard with a career-best performance, taking five wickets and destroying the opposition’s batting order. With eight sixes and seven boundaries in his blistering performance, Suryakumar Yadav achieved his fourth T20I century in just 55 deliveries.
But, in the last over, Lizaad Williams bowled a catch at deep square leg that ultimately ended his innings. India’s supremacy persisted after he left, ensuring a resounding victory. India’s performance was unaffected by Mr. 360’s absence due to a left ankle injury suffered during fielding, as Ravindra Jadeja took on leadership roles and made a key contribution to South Africa’s collapse with figures of 2 for 25 in three overs.