IND vs SA | Rishabh Pant calls for better performance from spinners

South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen floored the Indian attack at Cuttack through his match-winning 46-ball 81. His knock came at a time when the visitors were reduced to 29-3 within powerplay in pursuit of India's 148-6. Klaasen's 81 ensured his side took home the game with 10 balls to spare and took a 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series.

Indian pace expert Bhuvneshwar Kumar collected four wickets, all while conceding just 13 runs in his four overs. However, his frugal efforts were tendered red-herring in the match as he received little-to-no support from his fellow teammates. Spin wizard Yuzvendra Chahal gave away 49 runs in his four overs, while Axar Patel conceded 19 in his lone over.

Following India's defeat, interim captain Rishabh Pant praised Kumar but expressed his displeasure over the performance by his spinners. 

During the post-match presentation, he said, "I think batting, we were 10-15 runs short. Bhuvi and all other fast bowlers, though, bowled very well. 

We were short in the second half, and things did not go our way. The bowlers started really well, but after 10-11 overs, we did not bowl well, and that's where the game changed. 

We thought we were going to do similar things (as the South African bowlers). The spinners have to come better into the game. Last three matches, we will look to win."

IND vs SA 2022: Uphill task awaits hosts in remaining T20Is

The depleted Indian side will now face the visiting Proteas in the third match of the series on Tuesday, June 14, in Vishakhapatnam. The Men in Blue must win all the remaining games to claim the series.