South Africa launched their five-match series in style, cruising to a commanding 42-run win over India in the opening encounter at Mullanpur.

After opting to bat first, the visitors were powered by a scintillating innings from Ryan Rickelton, who smashed an unbeaten 64 off just 27 deliveries. His blistering knock, supported by quickfire cameos from Aiden Markram (17 off 7) and David Miller (30 off 12), lifted South Africa to a daunting 140-5.

India’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Arshdeep Singh (2/36) the only one to claim more than a single wicket. Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin chipped in with one each, but South Africa’s aggressive batting proved too strong.

Chasing 141, India faltered under pressure and were bundled out for 98 in 9.3 overs. Hardik Pandya (30 off 18) and Ravichandran Ashwin (13 off 7) offered brief resistance, but South Africa’s bowlers kept striking at regular intervals. Aiden Markram, Marco Jansen, and Kagiso Rabada all picked up two wickets apiece to seal a dominant win.

Ryan Rickelton was deservedly named Player of the Match for his explosive innings, which set the tone for South Africa’s emphatic victory. The win puts the visitors 1-0 up in the series, piling early pressure on hosts India ahead of the second game.