South Africa’s Aiden Markram delivered a standout performance in the 2nd ODI against India in Raipur on Wednesday, smashing a composed 110 off 98 balls during a challenging chase of 359. Opening the innings for the Proteas, Markram showcased exceptional control and timing, keeping South Africa in the hunt for a major part of the innings.
After the early dismissal of Quinton de Kock with the score at 26/1, Markram partnered with skipper Temba Bavuma to rebuild the innings. The pair added a crucial 101-run stand for the second wicket, laying the foundation of the chase. Bavuma departed for 46, after which Matthew Breetzke joined Markram and combined for another 70-run partnership.
Markram reached his century off 88 balls in the 27th over, continuing to attack the Indian bowlers with authority. His innings featured 10 fours and 4 sixes, reflecting a strong mix of aggression and precision.
His knock finally ended in the 30th over when Indian pacer Harshit Rana deceived him with a slower ball, resulting in a mistimed pull that went straight to the fielder. At that stage, South Africa stood at 197/3, with Markram having kept the visitors firmly in contention.
Markram’s career milestones after this innings
- 4th ODI century in 85 matches (81 innings).
- Total ODI runs: 2,707 at an average of 37.59.
- Fifty-plus scores: 4 hundreds and 14 fifties.
- Against India in ODIs: 447 runs in 18 matches, including his maiden century versus India.
- First away ODI century (home of opposition), taking his tally to 779 runs in 27 matches at 31.16, including 1 ton and 5 fifties.
- In List A cricket: 14 centuries in 139 matches, with 5,444 runs at an average above 44, along with 23 fifties.
Markram’s brilliant innings once again highlighted his ability to perform in high-pressure situations and reinforced his status as a key figure in South Africa’s limited-overs setup.
