In a clinical performance at Boland Park on Thursday, India defeated South Africa by 78 runs in the third and final ODI. This win ensured a 2-1 series victory for the Men in Blue, who managed to outplay the Proteas on their home soil. Chasing a target of 297, the South African side collapsed for 218 in 45.5 overs, despite a resilient 81 from Tony de Zorzi. The Indian bowling effort was spearheaded by Arshdeep Singh's four-wicket haul, with Washington Sundar and Avesh Khan contributing two wickets apiece.
India started their batting effort with a burst of energy from Rajat Patidar, who made his debut with a quick 22, including three fours and a six. However, the momentum shifted when South Africa's pace attack struck back, removing both Patidar and Sai Sudharsan (10) quickly. Stability returned when Sanju Samson and KL Rahul put on 52 runs, although the partnership ended when Wiaan Mulder dismissed Rahul for 21.
The game turned when Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma adapted perfectly to the pitch, building a commanding 116-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Varma eventually fell for 52, and Rinku Singh added a helpful 38, but the star of the show was Samson. Playing with natural grace, Samson reached his first-ever ODI century, finishing with a classical 108 that helped India reach a total of 296/8 in their 50 overs.
South Africa's pursuit began promisingly, with Reeza Hendricks and Zorzi putting on 59 runs in the first 8 overs. The tide turned when Arshdeep Singh took the vital wicket of Hendricks (19), followed by Axar Patel removing Rassie van der Dussen for just 2. Despite some fighting efforts from Aiden Markram (36) and Heinrich Klaasen (21), the Indian bowlers remained disciplined and consistent, taking wickets at regular intervals to secure the win.