Ind vs SA 3rd ODI : Yashasvi, Rohit, Prasidh and Virat Craft Series Win for India
On a balmy evening at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam, the home side delivered a crushing blow to South Africa national cricket team as Yashasvi Jaiswal’s maiden ODI century and a rock-steady knock by Rohit Sharma, complemented by a calm finish from Virat Kohli, powered India national cricket team to a convincing 9-wicket win in the third and final ODI — thereby sealing the series 2–1.
India vs South Africa - 3rd ODI • Visakhapatnam
South Africa tour of India, 2025 • 06 December 2025
Match Summary
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, India delivered with the ball — pacer Prasidh Krishna and spinner Kuldeep Yadav each picked up four wickets to dismantle South Africa’s batting. Inside what had looked like a 300+ threatening total, the Proteas collapsed under pressure and were dismissed for 270. In response, India’s openers provided a rock-solid foundation before Jaiswal delivered a defining blow with his maiden ODI hundred. The chase was completed comfortably in 39.5 overs for the loss of just one wicket, highlighting India’s dominance in all facets.
First Innings — South Africa Batting (SA’s 270)
South Africa had a strong start — their innings looked promising with contributions from the top order. Quinton de Kock stood out with a fighting 106, seemingly steering SA toward a total north of 300. But once de Kock fell, India’s bowlers struck hard. Prasidh Krishna and Kuldeep Yadav took four wickets apiece, rapidly unraveling the middle and lower order. The bowling attack, which had been questioned earlier, delivered under pressure and prevented South Africa from posting a truly big total.
Second Innings — India’s Chase (271/1 in 39.5 overs)
Chasing 271, India got off to a flying start. Openers Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal put on a strong opening stand, steadily piling on runs while keeping risks low. Once set, Jaiswal accelerated — reaching his maiden ODI century with a mixture of timing and power. The chase remained smooth even after Rohit was dismissed for 75. Veteran Virat Kohli shepherded the remaining run-chase with calm confidence, steering India over the line with over ten overs to spare. The dominant execution underlined India’s balance and composure in key moments.
Top Performers
Player of the Match - Yashasvi Jaiswal
Yashasvi Jaiswal was the star of the match — his maiden ODI century, 116* off 121 balls, anchored the chase and gave India a commanding 9-wicket win to seal the series.
Opening with assurance, he handled the new ball and middle overs with composure, then upped the tempo when required. His century under series-deciding pressure underscores his growing temperament and maturity. Jaiswal’s performance cements his place as a rising opener for India, bridging youth and stability at the top of the order.
Prasidh Krishna
Prasidh Krishna made a strong comeback with the ball, grabbing four wickets for 66 runs to dismantle South Africa’s tail and bowl them out inside 48 overs.
After a shaky second match, this performance demonstrated resilience and skill under pressure — his pace and accuracy in the final overs ensured there was no late surge from the Proteas. Prasidh’s spell was critical in handing India a manageable target and setting the tone for the chase.
Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma delivered a classy, controlled innings under pressure in the series decider — his 75 (73) laid a rock-steady foundation at the top of the order as India chased 271.
His knock blended caution and aggression: seven fours and three sixes showed he was ready to accelerate when needed, yet his shot selection kept the chase steady. Rohit’s innings helped negate early overs’ pressure, allowing the team to chase with ease — a reminder of why he remains a core pillar in ODIs even with newer talents in the mix.
Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav was central to India’s bowling victory — claiming four wickets for 41 runs as South Africa were bundled out for 270.
His controlled left-arm spin struck through the middle overs and prevented any lower-order resurgence. By breaking partnerships and applying pressure consistently, Kuldeep ensured the Proteas never built serious momentum after their top-order contributions. His veteran experience stood out, proving India’s spin bowling remains a key strength — especially in home conditions.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli played the perfect supporting role in the chase with a brisk 65* off 45 balls, finishing the match with composure and flair.
His presence at the crease ensured calm in the final overs, enabling a smooth finish rather than a nervous dash. Kohli’s half-century underscored his enduring value — his timing, placement and experience continue to anchor India’s innings under pressure, providing balance between aggressive stroke-play and calculated restraint.
A Comeback for India after Test Series Loss
This victory not only clinches the series 2–1 for India but also reinforces the team’s depth and resolve. After a loss in the second ODI, the way India bounced back shows character under pressure. The win boosts confidence in both the bowling attack and batting depth — especially with young guns like Jaiswal rising through. It sends a message that India remain dangerous and well-balanced across departments.
