Former South Africa wicketkeeper and head coach Mark Boucher has praised the exceptional partnership between spinners Ravi Bishnoi and Varun Chakravarthy, which played a key role in India's 61-run victory over South Africa in the T20I series opener in Durban.

Defending a target of 202/8, the spin duo created immense pressure, claiming six wickets between them. Both spinners finished with three wickets each, giving away just 53 runs. Their combined effort helped bowl out South Africa for 141 in just 17.5 overs, giving India a 1-0 lead in the four-match series.

Boucher spoke highly of Chakravarthy’s growth as a bowler, stating, "Varun Chakravarthy has come on leaps and bounds. The way he bowled tonight with Bishnoi was exceptional. What a great partnership they had in the middle." He also observed that South Africa's top-order struggled, particularly Heinrich Klaasen, who looked out of sorts throughout the match.

The duo of Bishnoi and Chakravarthy kept the pressure building with tight spells, including a remarkable phase where they bowled nine balls for just three runs. "They really made it almost look like men against boys," Boucher said. "South Africa were never really in with a shout; it always looked like something was going to give."

Boucher also highlighted Bishnoi’s smart adjustments in his bowling technique, noting that the leg-spinner altered his seam position during the second innings. "I noticed a couple of his balls came out differently, especially in the dark. What he did well tonight was change the seam up, and that made a difference," said Boucher, adding that Bishnoi's ability to disguise the spin was impressive.

The struggles of South African batsmen like David Miller were also evident. Boucher pointed out how Miller's difficulties were underscored by him facing five dot balls in a row against Bishnoi during the 11th over. "David Miller wasn’t picking a thing," Boucher remarked. "He missed four out of the six deliveries he faced. It just shows the quality of the spinners. There was something in the wicket that the South African bowlers couldn’t exploit."

Michael Neser Sidelined from Australia A Match Due to Hamstring Injury

Smriti Mandhana Holds Steady at 4th as Harmanpreet Kaur Climbs to Joint 9th in ICC

Wriddhiman Saha Retires from All Forms of Cricket Following India’s Loss to New Zealand