New Delhi: In the first two T20s India were crushed by robust South Africa, who have started their long tour on a high note.
The MS Dhoni-led home team looked listless in both games as Proteas took an unassailable lead of 2-0 to clinch the T20 series.
In the first encounter Indian bowlers failed to stop South African batsmen from chasing the formidable total of 199. In the next game, batsmen were the main culprits as they couldn't manage to play the entire quota of 20 overs and put up a paltry total of 92 runs, after being invited to bat first.
In both the matches, Dhoni persisted with Axar Patel, whose 16th over in the first T20 was the turning point of the match as he leaked 22 runs, which shifted the momentum towards the visiting side.
Same was the case with Ambati Rayudu, who also got the chance in the 2nd T20 even after scoring a duck in the opening game.
In the third and final match, which is going to be a dead rubber, Dhoni should replace Rayudu and Axar with more talented and experienced players like Ajinkya Rahane and Amit Mishra.
It will also give the duo some match practice before the crucial five-match ODI series.
The third and final match of the T20 series is scheduled for October 8 in Kolkata.
