Sanju Samson’s heroic ends in vain as SA beat IND by 9 runs

 

Sanju Samson scored an undefeated 86, but India lost to South Africa in the opening ODI at Lucknow's Ekana Cricket Stadium. India lost two early wickets while attempting to chase down a 250-run mark as Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill were both out during the first powerplay. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan were also unimpressive.

Shreyas Iyer batted with great effort and hit a 33-ball fifty before succumbing shortly after. Samson had trouble getting going at first but picked up the pace once he had gone 50 runs. Earlier, David Miller's (75) and Heinrich Klaasen's (74), both undefeated fifties, helped South Africa reach 249 for 4 in the allotted 40 overs. Due to rain, the game has been shortened to 40 overs per side.

South Africa and India will play the second ODI in Ranchi on Sunday and India will need to win the match in order to level the series.

After three and a half years, an ODI will be played at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, which most recently hosted a T20I between New Zealand and India.

This season, the majority of the state associations have taken a very proactive approach to ticket sales. However, the JSCA (Jharkhand State Cricket Association) started selling tickets to the general public a little later than expected.

Tickets for the second ODI between India and South Africa have only recently been available on both online and physical sites. Fans who are interested can purchase tickets using the online service Paytm Insider.

Additionally, local supporters can purchase their tickets at the stadium's box office. Up until October 8, tickets can be purchased in person at the JSCA Stadium's West Gate counter between the hours of 9:00 am and 4:00 pm (Saturday). For a lunch break, the counter will be closed from 1:00 to 2:00 PM.