![Team India lost by 51 runs against South Africa [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1765521670708_India_vs_South_Africa.jpg?type=hq)
Team India lost by 51 runs against South Africa [Source: AFP]
India had a rough day on December 11 in Mullanpur as the team went down to South Africa in the second T20I. The match slipped away early when Quinton de Kock smashed a fierce 90 off 46 balls. His innings created heavy pressure, and South Africa posted a strong total of 213 for 4.
India were later bowled out for 162 in 19.1 overs, which allowed South Africa to level the five-match series 1-1. This defeat was only India’s fourth loss in 21 completed T20Is since November 2024, so the result came as a surprise to many.
The pitch offered excellent batting conditions, and the dew made life easier for the team chasing. On such a surface, India had a fair chance of reaching the target of 214. Several decisions and performances, however, worked against them. Here are the key reasons India ended up losing the 2nd T20I match.
Axar Patel promoted to No. 3
One of the most unexpected decisions came when Axar Patel walked in at No. 3. India had already lost Shubman Gill in the first over, so sending Axar so early created confusion. He usually bats at No. 5 or lower, and his strengths suit certain situations rather than the pressure of coming in one-down. This was his first time batting at No. 3 in 52 T20I innings, so the move placed him in an unfamiliar role.
Axar scored 21 off 21, which slowed the momentum at a stage when India needed to counterattack. His promotion also disrupted the rhythm of other batters.
Tilak Varma or Suryakumar Yadav could have taken that spot, as both have played in that position before. Axar also never got a chance to use his natural game since he did not face left-arm spinner George Linde, who ended with simple figures and no real pressure.
Shivam Dube demoted to No. 7
Another major concern came with Shivam Dube’s batting position. Notably, he is known for powerful hitting, especially against spin. His role in domestic cricket and the IPL usually places him at No. 5 or No. 6. Sending him all the way down to No. 7 reduced his impact.
It is important to note that Dube came in as a hitter for pace, although his strongest skill lies in taking on spin bowlers in the middle overs. This change weakened India’s chances of building a solid chase.
Lack of support for Tilak Varma
Tilak Varma played a brave knock of 62 off 34 balls and showed great maturity under pressure. He needed support from the other end, which never arrived. Early wickets placed India in trouble, and no partnership developed around Tilak’s innings. His effort stood alone without meaningful contributions from others.
Notably, Gill’s golden duck added more stress. His return to T20Is has not been encouraging. He has struggled for runs in recent months, and his strike rate has remained low. Suryakumar Yadav, who carries vast experience, also could not produce a steady innings. His numbers in 2025 reveal a dip in form, which has affected India in close matches.
Heavy Dependence on Abhishek Sharma
India’s batting order has shown a growing reliance on Abhishek Sharma. He often rescues the team in tough moments. On this occasion, he had an off day, so the rest of the lineup struggled to step up. This dependence clearly showed the lack of collective effort from the top and middle order.
