India Masters vs South Africa Masters, IML 2025: Dominant India secure Third consecutive Win with 8-wicket Victory - Scorecard, Award Winners, Top Players

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India Masters registered a comprehensive victory over South Africa Masters in Vadodara on Saturday (March 1) in the International Masters League 2025.

The highlight of the evening was a sensational hat-trick by leg-spinner Rahul Sharma, which powered India Masters to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over South Africa Masters. While the reflexes and footwork of these cricketing legends may have slowed, their competitive fire remained undiminished. The presence of the legendary Sir Vivian Richards added to the occasion, as a packed stadium relived the golden days of the sport.

India Masters, led by Sachin Tendulkar, opted to bowl first and took full advantage of the spin-friendly conditions, bundling out South Africa Masters for just 85 in under 14 overs. The visitors started strong, with Hashim Amla and Henry Davids putting up 35 runs quickly. However, Rahul Sharma turned the game on its head, dismissing Amla, Jacques Kallis, and Jacques Rudolph in consecutive deliveries to expose South Africa's weakness against spin. Pawan Negi further dented the innings by removing Farhaan Behardien and top-scorer Davids (38 off 28). Yuvraj Singh chipped in with three wickets, while Stuart Binny wrapped things up with two scalps in his solitary over.

Chasing 86, India Masters suffered an early setback when Tendulkar was caught and bowled off Thandi Tshabalala, leaving the crowd momentarily stunned. Irfan Pathan (12) played a few attacking strokes before falling to Eddie Leie, leaving India at 27/2. However, Ambati Rayudu (41* off 34) and Pawan Negi (unbeaten) steadied the ship with a 62-run partnership, sealing victory with nine overs to spare.

The match was a testament to the enduring passion of these cricketing greats, proving that while age may slow them down, their love for the game and competitive spirit remain intact.

India Masters vs South Africa Masters Scorecard

South Africa Masters 85 (Henry Davids 38, Dane Vilas 21; Rahul Sharma 3/18, Yuvraj Singh 3/12, Pawan Negi 2/21, Stuart Binny 2/1) lost to India Masters 89/2 (Ambati Rayudu 41 not out, Pawan Negi 21 not out) by 8 wickets.

India Masters vs South Africa Masters Award Winners, Top Players

Player of the Match: Rahul Sharma (IND)

Highest Scorer: Ambati Rayudu (IND) - 41 runs

Most Wickets: Rahul Sharma, Yuvraj Singh - 3 wickets each