Markram’s Masterclass Powers South Africa to Victory Over India in High-Scoring Thriller

Historic Chase Levels Series

South Africa achieved a remarkable victory over India, chasing down 359 runs to win by four wickets in the second ODI held in Raipur on December 3, 2025. This was the joint-highest successful chase against India in men’s ODIs and South Africa’s third-highest overall in the format, demonstrating the significance of this achievement in cricket history.

Centuries Define the Match

The match witnessed an extraordinary display of batting prowess from both sides. India posted 358 for 5, with Ruturaj Gaikwad scoring 105 and Virat Kohli hitting 102. This was the 11th instance of Kohli achieving back-to-back hundreds, easily the most by any batter in ODIs. However, South Africa’s Aiden Markram responded with 110 runs, supported by Matthew Breetzke’s 68 and Dewald Brevis’s 54, successfully completing the chase.

Markram’s Match-Winning Knock

Aiden Markram led South Africa’s chase with his first hundred in an ODI chase, anchoring the innings brilliantly despite early pressure. The visitors rode on Markram’s superb century and crucial half-centuries from Breetzke and Brevis to better India’s total of 358/5 with four balls to spare. Corbin Bosch’s attacking enterprise and Keshav Maharaj’s calmness got the job done for them in the final overs.

Series Implications and What’s Next

South Africa levelled the ODI series with a thrilling four-wicket win over India in Raipur during the second match, setting up an exciting series decider. The teams are set for a thrilling series decider in Vizag on Saturday. This result showcases the competitive nature of modern ODI cricket and highlights South Africa’s ability to chase down massive totals under pressure, making the final match a must-watch encounter for cricket enthusiasts.