In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, India finally broke their losing streak against South Africa with a hard-fought seven-wicket victory in the third ODI at Newlands on December 6, 2025. After dropping the first two games, the visitors, led by stand-in captain Shubman Gill, bounced back strongly to level the three-match series 1-1. The win not only boosted morale ahead of the T20Is but also showcased the depth in India’s bowling attack, with Prasidh Krishna and Kuldeep Yadav starring under overcast skies.
South Africa, batting first after India won their first toss of the tour, started steadily on a pitch offering seam movement. Openers Quinton de Kock and Tony de Zorzi put on 78 runs before the spinners struck. Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist spinner, turned the game with a masterful spell of 3/43 from his 10 overs. He dismissed de Zorzi for 45 and later trapped Aiden Markram lbw for 20, his googly doing the trick. “Kuldeep’s variations were unplayable today,” Gill said post-match. Prasidh Krishna, the tall pacer, complemented him beautifully, claiming 2/48 including the vital wicket of David Miller, who holed out to mid-on for 38. Their efforts restricted the hosts to 270/8 in 50 overs, a total India fancied chasing.
The chase wasn’t straightforward. Rain interruptions played spoil sport, but the Indian openers set a solid platform. Rohit Sharma, returning to the side after missing the first two games due to personal reasons, looked in ominous form. The Hitman smashed 65 off just 42 balls, laced with eight fours and three sixes. His aggressive strokeplay, including a pulled six off Kagiso Rabada, eased the pressure on the middle order. “Feels great to be back and contribute,” Rohit grinned. Partnering him was Yashasvi Jaiswal, who fell early for 12, but Rohit and Shreyas Iyer steadied the ship with a 90-run stand.
Virat Kohli, ever the chase master, anchored the innings with a classy 76 not out off 82 deliveries. His knock featured elegant drives and quick singles, pulling India close whenever South Africa threatened. With Iyer departing for 34, Kohli and KL Rahul (28*) guided the team home in 47.3 overs, sealing the win amid cheers from the traveling Indian fans. Kohli’s calm demeanor under pressure drew praise from coach Gautam Gambhir, who noted, “Virat’s experience is gold in these situations.”
This victory was a team effort, but the bowlers deserve special mention. Prasidh’s bounce troubled the Proteas’ middle order, while Kuldeep’s spin wizardry earned him the player of the match award. For South Africa, Keshav Maharaj’s 2/52 was a lone bright spot, but they couldn’t capitalize on their batting depth. The series decider now shifts focus to the T20 format, where India aims to build on this momentum.
As the players shook hands, it was clear: cricket’s unpredictability keeps it alive. India’s resilience turned a potential whitewash into a contest, reminding everyone why this bilateral rivalry remains one of the sport’s fiercest.