Heinrich Klaasen’s personal best of 81 from 46 underlined a clinical all-round display from the visitors as they go 2-0 up in the 5-match series against India.

South Africa have aced a relatively smaller chase of 149 despite a nervous beginning, and are now one win away from sealing the series.

After a solid effort with the ball to restrict India to 148, it looked like the Proteas were in pole position. However, a spell of surgical precision from Bhuvneshwar Kumar sent back Hendricks, Pretorius, and van der Dussen.

Given the early setbacks, skipper Bavuma and Klaasen started off rather carefully. Bavuma played an audacious scoop over the keeper for six, but provided important company for Klaasen.

At one point, it looked like Klaasen wasn’t able to get out of his shell, but took a particular liking to spin. He hit a four and a six off Chahal to begin the onslaught that would gradually turn the game on its head.

Bavuma continued to work the ball around, but an attempt to attack the legspinner was his undoing. Nonetheless, his 35 from 30 still was a crucial contribution.

On the other hand, Klaasen was in the groove and continued to target spin. The 16th over from Chahal went for 23 and sealed the deal for SA. Klaasen smashed another three sixes, and by the time he was out, it was a mere formality.

It might not have been the most free-flowing display from the Proteas batters early on, but the job was done.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar impressed with four wickets, and he was the shining light to keep India in the game for as long as he could.

Tune in on Tuesday for game 3. The Proteas will want to bring it home, while the Indians have a point to prove with the series on the line at Visakhapatnam.

IND 148/6 (Shreyas 40, Kishan 34 – Nortje 4-0-36-2, Rabada 4-0-15-1)
SA 149/6 (Klaasen 81, Bavuma 35 – Bhuvneshwar 4-0-13-4)

Photo: CSA