Thu Nov 14 09:10:19 UTC 2024: ## Tilak Varma’s Maiden Century Powers India to Thrilling 11-Run Win Over South Africa in Centurion
**Centurion, South Africa:** Tilak Varma smashed his maiden international century, a magnificent 100 off 51 balls, to propel India to a challenging 219/6 in the third T20I against South Africa at SuperSport Park on Wednesday. The young Mumbai Indians star’s heroics ultimately proved decisive as India clinched a thrilling 11-run victory, taking a 2-1 series lead.
Varma, who returned after recovering from an injury, shared a crucial 107-run stand with Abhishek Sharma (50 off 25 balls) after Sanju Samson fell for another duck in the series. The South African bowlers fought back with three quick wickets, but Varma’s blistering assault, punctuated by six fours and six sixes, kept India firmly in the driver’s seat.
Chasing a daunting target, South Africa fought valiantly, with Heinrich Klaasen (41) and Marco Jansen (54 off 17 balls) launching a late onslaught. Jansen’s aggressive knock nearly pulled off an improbable victory, but Arshdeep Singh’s accurate bowling, including the crucial dismissal of Jansen in the final over, ensured India held on for a hard-fought win.
The match witnessed a tense finish, with South Africa needing 14 runs off the last two balls. However, two singles off the last two deliveries sealed the victory for the visitors.
Earlier, Ramandeep Singh made a dream debut for India, smashing a huge six in his first international innings.
The fourth and final T20I will take place on Sunday at the same venue, with both teams looking to win the series.
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