India, Dec 12 : South Africa defeated India by 51 runs in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, on Thursday, registering their largest victory margin in T20Is against India. With this win, the Proteas also became the most successful T20I team against India, securing their 13th win in 33 meetings.
Opting to bowl first, India struggled to contain the Proteas on a batting-friendly surface. Quinton de Kock produced a sensational knock of 90 off 46 balls, smashing five fours and seven sixes to set the tone for South Africa’s imposing 213/4. De Kock, who now has 441 runs in 12 T20I innings against India, credited his consistency to familiarity with conditions and frequent India-SA clashes.
South Africa captain Aiden Markram praised the effort, saying the innings from de Kock and the bowlers’ improved performance from the first game were “trending in the right direction”.
India’s chase never settled after Shubman Gill fell for a golden duck and skipper Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed for just 5, leaving the middle order under pressure. Suryakumar admitted the batting unit failed to take responsibility, especially in a chase he termed “smart and achievable”.
Tilak Varma’s courageous 62 off 34 balls kept India alive, but the innings collapsed rapidly as Sipamla, Baartman and Ngidi shared the final five wickets for just five runs, resulting in India being bowled out for 162 in 19.1 overs.
South Africa will aim to continue their strong momentum, while India must reassess their top-order struggles and bowling discipline ahead of the series decider.
The third T20I will be played at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on December 14.