South Africa, after consecutive losses in the ODI and Test formats against India, bounced back in the first T20I of their series, securing their maiden victory on the tour. Electing to bat after India won the toss and choosing to bowl, South Africa posted a formidable total of 189/4 in their 20 overs. Tazmin Brits starred with a career-best 81 off 56 balls, supported by Marizanne Kapp’s 57 off 33 deliveries. Despite efforts from India’s bowlers Radha Yadav and Pooja Vastrakar, who each took 2 wickets, South Africa’s strong batting display set a challenging target.
In response, India began well with Smriti Mandhana’s brisk 46 off 30 balls but ultimately fell short in their chase. Jemimah Rodrigues fought with an unbeaten 53 off 30 deliveries, but South Africa’s Ayabonga Khaka and Chloe Tryon’s bowling restricted India to 177/4, sealing a 12-run victory for the visitors. This win marked a significant turnaround for South Africa, halting India’s winning streak and setting up an interesting remainder of the T20I series.
Following the first T20I of their series, Radha Yadav, who claimed 2 wickets during the match, addressed the post-match conference.
On India’s fielding in the 1st T20I:
Radha Yadav commented that she believed it was a tough day for India’s fielding in the 1st T20I. She noted that all players in their team are excellent fielders who consistently put in hard work and training. She attributed the below-par performance to an off day and expressed confidence that they would strive to make a strong comeback.
She stated, “I think it was just a bad day for us in the field. We will look to bounce back.”
On Pooja Vastrakar’s Bowling:
Radha Yadav remarked that Pooja Vastrakar has been consistently playing cricket, having participated in all matches including Test cricket against Bangladesh. She noted the challenges faced by fast bowlers in maintaining fitness and rhythm, highlighting that it is demanding but commending Vastrakar for her efforts. Radha emphasized that whenever Vastrakar receives the ball, she strives to contribute to the team and thoroughly practices, expressing confidence that such dedication will produce favourable results in the future.
She remarked, “Pooja Vastrakar looks to deliver for the team whenever she is handed the ball.”
On India’s bowling in the First T20I:
Radha mentioned that it was crucial to determine the appropriate length and pace for the wicket. She acknowledged that as a bowling unit, they made some errors, possibly giving away an additional 10-15, or even 20 runs. She highlighted the discussion revolving around directing the ball towards the fielders’ positions, maintaining an attacking approach, and seeking wickets. Radha noted South Africa’s effective batting display while also admitting to their own shortcomings during the match.
She mentioned, “South Africa batted well, one could say, while we also made some mistakes.”
On her bowling plans and on Chennai’s surface:
Radha Yadav discussed her strategic approach, emphasizing adaptability based on match conditions. She stressed that as a spinner, her primary objective is to take wickets, particularly when the opposition is scoring heavily. Radha also underscored the importance of maintaining a balance between aggression and containment as necessary. Reflecting on her bowling performance, she noted that adjusting to the pitch conditions was crucial, especially after observing that fuller deliveries were ineffective in Chennai and resulted in runs being scored due to the skidding nature of the ball. Looking ahead, Radha expressed confidence in enhancing their overall performance by refining aspects such as field placements, clarity, and delivery execution in the upcoming matches.
She expressed, “We can do a lot of things much better in the next game”
On the experience of playing in Chennai:
Radha mentioned that it was a bit challenging due to the high humidity in Chennai, especially after coming from cooler weather in Bangalore. Despite the conditions, she expressed determination to persevere for the sake of cricket. Radha noted the contrast in weather between Bangalore, which was colder, and Chennai’s humidity. She expressed personal satisfaction and excitement as a team, particularly appreciating the enthusiastic turnout of fans, which she found encouraging during the ODI match.
She stated, “It’s great to see so many fans coming out.”
On the fitness status of Harmanpreet Kaur:
Radha described the conditions as very humid with significant running involved, making fielding challenging. Despite this, indicated that Harmanpreet is fine.
She stated, “It’s very humid and there’s a lot of running involved.”