South Africa vs India | David Miller with 'stunner' of a one-handed catch

Proteas pull of a thrilling last-ball win in the first T20I

South Africa secured a dramatic last-ball victory over India in the first T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Thursday, June 9, 2023. Despite India posting a competitive total of 211/4, the Proteas chased it down with just one ball to spare, thanks to a brilliant all-round performance from David Miller.

Miller, who was named Player of the Match, smashed an unbeaten 64 off just 31 deliveries, including three sixes and five fours, to guide his team to victory. He also took two crucial wickets with his left-arm spin, conceding just 26 runs in his four overs.

Miller's heroics overshadowed by controversy

However, Miller's heroics were overshadowed by a controversial decision in the final over. With South Africa needing 12 runs to win off the last three balls, Miller smashed a six off the penultimate delivery. However, replays showed that the ball had brushed his helmet grill before going over the boundary. The on-field umpires ruled it as a six, but the Indian team protested, and the decision was eventually overturned by the third umpire.

Despite the controversy, South Africa held their nerve and sealed a memorable victory. Rassie van der Dussen also played a key role in the chase, scoring a valuable 75 off 46 deliveries. For India, Shreyas Iyer top-scored with 36 off 27 balls, while Ishan Kishan made a quickfire 37 off 21 deliveries.

Proteas bowlers set the tone

Earlier in the match, the Proteas bowlers had done a commendable job of restricting India to a manageable total. Kagiso Rabada took two early wickets, while Wayne Parnell and Anrich Nortje also chipped in with important scalps. India's middle order, led by Iyer and Hardik Pandya (31 off 12 balls), then steadied the innings, but they were unable to accelerate in the final overs.

The second T20I between South Africa and India will be played in Cuttack on Sunday, June 12, 2023.