A masterclass of limited-overs leg-spin by Imran Tahir helped South Africa to a comfortable eight-wicket win in the first ODI versus Sri Lanka.
Tahir, who was named Man of the Match, finished with 3-26, including the scalp of top-scorer Kusal Mendis for 62, and did not concede a boundary in his 10 overs to ensure South Africa always held control after choosing to bowl first.
He bowled 36 dot balls in total in his spell as Sri Lanka were dismissed for 181 in the 49th over. The target proved a scant challenge for South Africa’s full-strength top order.
An opening stand of 71 in 13 overs between Quinton de Kock (34) and ex-Derbyshire man Hashim Amla (57), two of the senior South Africa players rested from the T20 series, broke the back of the chase and the target was knocked off with more than 15 overs to spare.
Speaking after the match, Tahir said: “I was very happy with the way it came out. It was a very good, pleasing day for me and the team.
“I need to keep doing it every game, and for that, I have been working really hard. I don’t take any game lightly.
Imran Tahir was exceptional today. He did not concede a single boundary and sent down an amazing 36 dot balls #ProteaFire pic.twitter.com/hmWDgpo3cA
— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) January 28, 2017
“I think I was bowling against the wind which was obviously easier for the batsmen to hit me. But I always look to bowl according to the field. Somehow I get my wickets, but I try not to give runs and try and use my variations.
“It was a great team effort. The fast bowlers started very well and I had a chance to do the job for South Africa. Every wicket I take for South Africa, I try to express how much it means to me when I celebrate.”
Join Tahir at Derbyshire in 2017. The Club has reduced its price and simplified its categories to offer one single Club Membership at only £139 if purchased before 1 February Early Bird deadline.
