Tue Nov 12 17:26:27 UTC 2024: ## India Loses 2nd T20I Against South Africa Despite Varun Chakravarthy’s 5-Wicket Haul

**Gqeberha, South Africa:** Despite a stellar performance from spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who claimed a remarkable five wickets, Team India suffered a three-wicket defeat against South Africa in the second T20I at the St. George’s Park in Gqeberha on Saturday.

Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauded Chakravarthy’s performance, praising his resilience and dedication. “Taking five wickets while defending 125 runs in a T20 match is incredible. He (Varun) has worked hard on his game and has been waiting for this platform. He is enjoying it now,” said Yadav.

While acknowledging the disappointing loss, Yadav expressed pride in his team’s bowling performance, stating, “You defend whatever total you get. Obviously, you don’t want to just make 125 or 140 in a T20 game, but I am proud of the way my guys bowled.”

India, batting first after losing the toss, managed 124/6 in their allotted 20 overs. All-rounder Hardik Pandya top-scored with a gritty 39 runs off 45 balls.

South Africa, chasing a modest target of 125, reached the goal in 19 overs with seven wickets down. Chakravarthy’s five-wicket haul in a miserly spell of 4 overs for 17 runs kept India in the game, but the lack of support from the pace bowlers in the final overs proved costly.

With the series tied at 1-1, the decider will be played in Johannesburg on Tuesday, promising an exciting conclusion to the three-match T20I series.

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