Team India has sealed a convincing ODI series victory against South Africa, a result that offers crucial insights into the squad’s dynamics and future blueprint. The series was a blend of established brilliance and emerging clarity, laying a clear roadmap for the ODI team.
Here are the 5 key takeaways from Team India’s performance:
1. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are still on top of their game
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma proved they are still at the zenith of their game. Kohli, in particular, was in sublime touch, amassing a staggering 302 runs in three innings, which included two centuries (135 and 102) and an unbeaten 65* in the decider, earning him the Player of the Series award.
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Rohit’s contribution of 146 runs, including two vital half-centuries, further cemented their importance in the setup.
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad will now be considered as a middle order batter
Initially an opener, Ruturaj Gaikwad has demonstrated his versatility and temperament at No. 4. His maiden ODI century (105 off 83 balls) in the second match, coming after the early fall of wickets, showcased his ability to anchor an innings and accelerate in the middle overs.
This performance strongly suggests he will be considered a middle-order batsman moving forward, providing depth and stability.
3. Washington Sundar Might Be Out of ODI Plans:
The series indicated a lack of clear role or confidence in Washington Sundar’s limited-overs abilities. He bowled only a total of seven overs across the first two matches and struggled with the bat, managing scores of just 13 and 1.
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With other spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja preferred in crucial phases, his position as the all-rounder in the 50-over format appears doubtful.
4. Indian Pacers Missing Experience in Dewy Conditions:
While the pacers delivered early wickets, their struggles in the later stages of the first ODI, heavily affected by dew, were evident. With the ball becoming difficult to grip, the lack of experienced execution to contain big-hitting batsmen became a concern.
This highlights the need for more varied skills and experience in handling wet-ball conditions, especially when defending totals.
5. KL Rahul is the Perfect Finisher India Needs:
KL Rahul, batting at No. 5 or No. 6, firmly established himself as Team India’s primary finisher. His unbeaten 66* off 43 balls in the second ODI, combined with a crucial 60 off 56 balls in the first, saw him continue his fine form.
Since 2023, Rahul is among the leading run-scorers in the death overs (41-50) in ODIs, boasting a formidable strike rate of over 142, making him a reliable, aggressive presence at the end of the innings.