‘Great comeback’ – Fans react as Arshdeep Singh takes five wicket haul in 1st ODI of India’s tour of South Africa

India and South Africa are currently locking horns 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 first and the Indian lethal bowling attack dismissed the Proteas for 116 runs in 27.3 overs. 

The Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh took a five-wicket haul and ended his spell with the figures of 10-0-37-5 with an economy of 3.7. Avesh Khan also took a four-wicket haul with an economy of 3.4. Andile Phehlukwayo became the highest scorer for South Africa and put 33 runs on the board off 49 balls. The Indian men will have to chase 117 runs within 50 overs to win the first ODI match of the series. 

Arshdeep Singh on taking his first five-wicket haul

In the innings break, Arshdeep Singh talked about his first five-wicket haul and said, “Was trying to keep it simple. Hadn’t opened my account in ODIs. Great to start with a fifer. The wicket was helpful. When we had a chat, we thought there wouldn’t be much movement. We spoke earlier that there won’t be much movement but we were surprised, there was a breeze too so the plan was to keep it wicket to wicket and look for Ibw/bowled.” 

He further said, “Adaptability is the key for us as bowlers. Proud to represent the country and do the job. It was quite hot as well. I’m playing the 50-over format after a long time, so it was difficult but I’m feeling fresh after the fifer. Even though we thought so (that the pitch was abrasive) , there was some moisture in the wicket, so the ball remained fairly new.”

SA vs IND Playing XI 

South Africa (Playing XI): Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram(c), Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Tabraiz Shamsi. 

India (Playing XI): KL Rahul(w/c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar. 

Look how the fans reacted – 

A strong comeback 🔥

— Ali Umair Shahbaz (@aliumairshahbaz) December 17, 2023

Never mess with Ash Paji 🔥❤️‍🔥 pic.twitter.com/ONU3NPKqsd

— Sachin Kumar Vishwakarma (@apnasachinkumar) December 17, 2023

On word for both champs 🔥🔥🏏 pic.twitter.com/oSPfuw5JGy

— Mohammad Harris 🇵🇸 🇵🇰 (@harris00071) December 17, 2023

Greatest team

— мυѕѕαωαя вυтт (@IsHQ_QaTil) December 17, 2023

5-WICKET HAUL FOR ARSHDEEP SINGH…!!!!!

– He picked 5 wickets haul in first ODI match against South Africa in South Africa. Incredible, Arshdeep.

WELL DESERVED ♥️ pic.twitter.com/o4CTIROGCB

— 💪🎭..Rai ji..💪🎭 (@Vinod_r108) December 17, 2023

https://twitter.com/sarcastic__jat/status/1736329720516800842?s=46

Sing is King 👑#PBKSBlood❤️ pic.twitter.com/wFPbyQJ088

— Aarushi Joshi (@Aarushijoshii) December 17, 2023