India secured a 30-run win over South Africa in the fifth and final Twenty20 International in Ahmedabad, clinching the five-match series 3-1. Hardik Pandya delivered a prolific all-round performance, scoring 63 runs off 25 balls and taking a crucial wicket, earning the Player of the Match award.
Electing to bat first, India posted 231 for five in their 20 overs. Tilak Varma top-scored with 73 from 42 balls, supported by Sanju Samson (37) and Abhishek Sharma (34). Shivam Dube remained unbeaten on 10, while Pandya’s innings included five sixes and five fours at a strike rate of 252. The innings featured aggressive partnerships, including a 100-run stand between Varma and Pandya in just 41 balls.
South Africa, chasing 232, managed 201 for eight. Quinton de Kock scored 65 off 35 balls, while Dewald Brevis contributed 31. Varun Chakravarthy claimed four wickets, supported by Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya, restricting the visitors’ run rate in the closing overs.
Pandya’s performance was the highlight of India’s campaign, complementing Varun Chakravarthy’s consistent bowling throughout the series, which earned him the player of the series award. India’s victory marked a comprehensive display of power hitting and disciplined bowling, securing a series triumph on home soil.
