Ind vs SA 3rd T20 : India Take Series Lead with Comfortable Win
India secured a comfortable 7-wicket victory over South Africa in the Ind vs SA 3rd T20 of the five-match series at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala on 14 December 2025, taking a 2-1 lead in the series. Chasing a modest target of 118, India reached 120/3 in 15.5 overs, thanks to clinical bowling from Arshdeep Singh, who was named Player of the Match, and composed batting from the top order. South Africa’s total of 117 all out proved insufficient on a track that offered assistance to disciplined bowlers.
India vs South Africa - 3rd T20I • Dharamsala
South Africa tour of India, 2025 • 14 December 2025
Match Summary
In the third T20I between India and South Africa, the hosts bounced back strongly after losing the second game to seize control of the five-match series. South Africa were bundled out for 117 in their 20 overs, unable to build significant partnerships despite a resilient effort from their middle order. India’s bowling unit, led by Arshdeep Singh, maintained pressure through consistent lines and an ability to strike at key moments. Chasing a modest total, India’s top order quickly took charge, racing past the required run-rate with calculated aggression. The well-paced chase, ending inside 16 overs, showcased India’s comfort against moderate targets and emphasized their depth in both batting and bowling departments.
First Innings - South Africa All Out for 117
South Africa’s innings never quite ignited in the third T20I at Dharamsala, as they were restricted to 117 all out in 20 overs. Winning the toss, South Africa opted to bat but were soon under pressure against a disciplined Indian attack. Early strikes from Arshdeep Singh disrupted the top order, removing key batters before they could settle.
Despite a gritty half-century from Aiden Markram (61 off 46) that offered some resistance, regular wickets prevented any meaningful acceleration. India’s bowlers exploited seam movement and variations, with Arshdeep leading the pack with vital breakthroughs. Contributions from others complemented his effort as South Africa struggled to put up a competitive total. The Indian fielding was sharp, and partnerships were cut short consistently, leaving the visitors with a sub-par score to defend.
Second Innings - India Blow Away Proteas in 15.5 Overs
Tasked with chasing a modest target of 118, India’s top order approached the run-chase with intent and composure. Openers laid a solid foundation, reaching double figures before a few quick wickets slightly slowed the momentum. However, the required run-rate remained comfortably within reach thanks to nifty rotation and timely boundaries from the likes of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, who anchored the chase with patience and positive intent.
India raced ahead through the powerplay and never looked in serious trouble, maintaining a steady scoring clip throughout. The partnership ensured that the target was achieved with relative ease, finishing on 120/3 in 15.5 overs, as Shivam Dube clipped the winning runs with an authoritative shot. India’s efficient chase highlighted their command in run-chases of moderate totals, blending control with calculated aggression.
Top Performers
Arshdeep Singh
Arshdeep Singh was the standout performer in the 3rd T20I, earning Player of the Match honors for his pivotal impact with the ball. He consistently struck early, breaking crucial partnerships that kept South Africa’s scoring in check. By bowling disciplined lines and mixing pace effectively, Arshdeep ensured regular breakthroughs at key intervals, unsettling the top and middle order. His ability to swing the ball and bowl at a challenging length made scoring difficult for the batters, contributing significantly to South Africa being restricted to a low total. His performance underlines his rising stature as a dependable bowler in pressure situations and a key asset for India’s bowling attack in T20 cricket.
Aiden Markram
Despite South Africa’s overall batting collapse, Aiden Markram stood out with a gritty 61 off 46 balls, holding the innings together when wickets fell around him. His knock was composed and measured, displaying the ability to rotate strike even under persistent bowling pressure. Markram’s innings included well-timed shots and calculated aggression that stretched boundaries, and for a brief phase it looked like his innings could help South Africa post a competitive total. However, with frequent dismissals at the other end, his efforts couldn’t be fully capitalized upon. Nonetheless, his half-century was a key highlight for South Africa and demonstrated his temperament and application in challenging batting conditions.
What This Match Result Means
India’s 7-wicket victory in the 3rd T20I carries important implications for the balance of the five-match series. With this win, India now take a 2-1 lead, shifting momentum firmly in their favor heading into the middle phase of the tour. The comprehensive performance in Dharamsala highlights India’s depth in batting and effectiveness in bowling against competitive international sides. For South Africa, the defeat exposes areas that need adjustment, particularly in building partnerships and applying pressure during the latter stages of their innings. India’s disciplined chase underlines their strategic clarity when facing modest targets, showcasing calm decision-making and execution. The result sets up an intriguing fourth T20I, where South Africa will look to bounce back and level the series yet again.
