Quinton de Kock's Explosive 90 Levels IND vs SA T20 Series 1-1 in Thrilling 2nd Clash!

In a stunning turnaround, South Africa leveled their T20I series against India 1-1 with a commanding 51-run victory in the second match at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh.

Quinton de Kock's blistering 90 off just 51 balls powered South Africa to a formidable total of 213/5 in their 20 overs. The opener's aggressive innings, filled with powerful strokes, set the tone for the Proteas' dominance after their loss in the rain-affected first T20I.

Chasing a challenging target, India started brightly with Abhishek Sharma smashing a massive six early on. However, the powerplay turned disastrous as South Africa's pacers struck back. Marco Jansen claimed two key wickets, while Lungi Ngidi dismissed one, leaving India reeling at 51/3 after six overs.

Tilak Varma fought valiantly with a gritty fifty, and Jitesh Sharma added some late fireworks including a boundary, but it wasn't enough. India were bowled out for 162 in 19.1 overs, with Lutho Sipamla sealing the win by restricting the hosts in the death overs.

This match marked the venue's first men's international, where fast bowlers proved effective on a pitch offering true bounce. South Africa, needing a quick response after the first game, showed their depth, especially with all-round options like Sipamla.

India now face pressure heading into the decider, having led recent head-to-heads 6-2. Fans await the third T20I as both teams adapt to conditions ahead of bigger challenges like the World Cup.