‘Inky pinky ponky kardiya Paaji ne’ – Fans react as Arshdeep Singh takes fifer in 1st ODI against South Africa

India’s young pacer, Arshdeep Singh, stole the show with a brilliant fifer in the first ODI against South Africa at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, December 17. Opting to bat, the Proteas found themselves in a precarious position as Arshdeep wreaked havoc, dismissing their key batters. 

Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen fell victim to Arshdeep’s skilful deliveries in his opening over, setting the tone for a dominant display. Tony de Zorzi’s aggressive approach also proved costly, contributing to South Africa’s downfall. Arshdeep’s brilliance extended to claiming Heinrich Klaasen, securing his fourth wicket and reducing the hosts to 52/4 in 10 overs.

As if that wasn’t enough, Avesh Khan further compounded South Africa’s misery with a disciplined bowling display and picking up 4 wickets. The Indian seamers capitalised on favourable conditions, sticking to their plans and inducing poor shots from the Proteas’ batsmen. Andile Phehlukwayo fought a lone battle, top-scoring with 33, but Arshdeep had the final say by dismissing him in his last over to achieve a remarkable five-wicket haul. Kuldeep Yadav wrapped up the proceedings as South Africa was bundled out for a mere 116, providing India with a strong start in the 3-match ODI series.

Proud to represent the country and do the job: Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep talked about his performance in the post-innings interview and said that the wicket was helpful. He also said that they thought there wouldn’t be much movement but they were surprised to see the movements they were getting during the bowling. 

“Was trying to keep it simple. Hadn’t opened my account in ODIs. Great to start with a fifer. The wicket was helpful. When we had a chat, we thought there won’t be much movement. We spoke earlier that there won’t be much movement but we were surprised, there was a breeze too so the plan was to keep it wicket to wicket and look for lbw/bowled. Adaptability is the key for us as bowlers. 

Proud to represent the country and do the job. It was quite hot as well. I’m playing the 50-over format after a long time, so it was difficult but I’m feeling fresh after the fifer. Even we thought so (that the pitch was abrasive) but there was some moisture in the wicket, so the ball remained fairly new.” Arshdeep was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

Here’s how fans reacted: