India Women drew first blood in the five-match T20I series against South Africa when the visitors won by seven wickets at Senwes Park in Potchestroom on Tuesday.
Chasing a target 165, India’s run-chase got off to a good start as Mithali Raj and Smriti Mandhana put on 47 for the first wicket inside five overs.
The home side fought back though and dismissed Mandhana (28) and India captain Harmanpreet Kaur (0) off consecutive balls.
Raj continued on her merry way and formed a partnership with debutant Jemimah Rodrigues (37) that yielded 69 runs.
Home captain Dane van Niekerk accounted for Rodrigues but Veda Krishnamurthy (37 not out), together with Raj, made sure there was no further hiccups as the former India skipper ended unbeaten on 54 as the visitors won with seven balls to spare.
Earlier, the hosts made their way to a total 164/4 in their 20 overs with Van Niekerk top-scoring with 38 while there was further contributions from Mignon du Preez (31) and debutant Nadine de Klerk (23 not out).
The innings was however given a blistering end by Chloe Tryon who slammed 32 not out off just seven balls that included two fours and four sixes.
The second game of the series will be played on Friday in East London.
