‘Good chance for them to get a taste of international cricket’ – KL Rahul congratulates young squad after win in 1st ODI against South Africa

India and South Africa met for the 1st ODI of India’s tour of South Africa 2023 at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. South Africa won the toss and chose to bat, while the India team got the whole squad dismissed for 116 runs in 27.3 overs. 

Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan took a five and four wicket haul respectively, while the South African batsmen gave Indians a target of 117 runs to chase within 50 overs. India chased the low target in 16.4 overs as the debutant Sai Sudharsan and Shreyas Iyer scored 55 and 52 runs. KL Rahul spoke about the discipline and good character that the squad showed in the first ODI against South Africa.

‘The boys did really well’ – KL Rahul on India’s young squad 

In the post match ceremony India captain KL Rahul congratulated the squad for the win and said, “I am happy. Good to have a win under the belt. Completely different to what we expected. The plan was to get the spinners in the game. The boys did really well. The boys did well to stay disciplined. The ball kept moving around. There is a lot of cricket being played. You prioritize one format. For now, it is Tests and T20s. Everyone is performing and trying to do well for the country. Good chance for them to get a taste of international cricket.” 

Previously, KL Rahul also spoke about not adding any pressure from his side on the young Indian squad in the pre- match conference and said, “I don’t think a lot will change in terms of how we want to play ODI cricket. There are a few new faces, and to expect them to go out and play the role that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli played in the World Cup will be too early. You have to give them time and make them feel comfortable. There’s no added pressure from my side.”