India Masters continued their impressive run at the International Masters League (IML) T20 2025, securing their third consecutive victory against South Africa Masters at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on March 1, 2025. Led by cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, India chased down the modest target of 86 runs with ease, bolstered by their strong bowling performance which saw South Africa bundled out for just 85 runs.
The match started with Tendulkar winning the toss and opting to bowl first—an early decision marking the tactical intent of the India Masters. South Africa's innings began with openers Hashim Amla and Henry Davids, who were able to set a decent pace. Davids stood out, scoring 38 runs off 28 balls with four fours and one six. Despite his efforts, the rest of the batting line-up crumbled under pressure.
Rahul Sharma was the star of the bowling attack, making history by taking the first-ever hat trick of the IML. He dismissed Amla for 9 with his first delivery and followed with quick strikes to remove South Africa skipper Jacques Kallis and Jacques Rudolph, both for golden ducks. The Proteas found themselves reeling at 35 for 3, and the pressure only mounted from there.
Following Sharma's brilliance, Pawan Negi and Yuvraj Singh continued to apply the pressure, each claiming key wickets. Negi dismissed Farhaan Behardien, and Singh struck twice, accounting for Dane Vilas and Vernon Philander, reducing South Africa to 68 for 7.
Stuart Binny wrapped up South Africa's innings with two wickets, leaving them all out for 85 runs within just 14 overs. This bowling display showcased India Masters’ depth and effectiveness, maintaining their brilliant form from previous matches. Tendulkar, clearly pleased with the outcome, commended his bowling unit for their exceptional performance.
Chasing 86, India Masters began the innings with Tendulkar and Ambati Rayudu. Nevertheless, the legendary Tendulkar fell early for just 6 runs, leading to slight concern among supporters as the Master Blaster left the pitch.
Yet, Irfan Pathan stepped up admirably, crafting important runs to stabilize the innings alongside Rayudu. Pathan showcased elegance at the crease, scoring 13 runs off 12 balls. Rayudu, on the other hand, remained not out at 7 runs. The duo successfully guided India to their target, ensuring victory with nine wickets intact and still maintaining 50 balls to spare.
This match marked another feather in the cap for the India Masters, placing them at the top of the standings with 6 points from three games. The team looks to build on this momentum as they prepare for upcoming matches, with Tendulkar’s leadership proving invaluable. Meanwhile, South Africa will need to refocus and recalibrate quickly after this disappointing defeat; they currently sit at the bottom of the standings following their loss to Sri Lanka Masters as well.
Overall, the match showcased the talents of seasoned cricketers from both sides and brought much excitement to fans watching at the BCA Stadium and on screens around the country. With Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, and their teammates firing on all cylinders, India Masters seem poised for success, adding another thrilling chapter to this tournament.