Top 5 South African ODI chokes against India
Ever since South Africa reentered international cricket in the early 1990s, they have proven to be one of the leading teams in all formats of the game. When it comes to their record against India, they have won 45 of the 78 games played between the two sides and needless to say, they have been the dominant team.
India clawed their way back over the last decade and a half and have recorded 30 victories in all. The Men in Blue have recorded some memorable victories against them and some of them have seen South Africa's batting line-up collapse in a heap, thereby resulting in dramatic wins for India.
Here is a look at the 5 most incredible chokes suffered by South African batsmen in one-day internationals against India.
#5 Tri-series game at Centurion Park, 2001
During India's tour to South Africa back in 2001, the team won only one ODI but it was brought about by excellent bowling by the Indian attack and a collapse from the Proteas' top order. India chose to bat first at Centurion Park in a day-night encounter and posted a modest 233 in their 50 overs. Only Rahul Dravid got a half-century (54) and Yuvraj Singh (42) and Virender Sehwag (33) chipped in to ensure that India had something to defend.
Under lights, the Indian bowlers led by Ajit Agarkar and Javagal Srinath started well. Opener Herschelle Gibbs went in the 2nd over but after steadying the innings a bit, Gary Kirsten departed. The collapse started with the dismissal of Neil McKenzie by Anil Kumble in the 14 the over as South Africa were reduced to 66 for 3. The kept losing wickets from then on as Harbhajan Singh (3 for 27) and Kumble tightened the screws. From 66 for 3, they were reduced to 106 for 7 in the space of 10.3 overs. Although the lower order fought back through Kluesener and Boucher, India eventually emerged the winner.