Arshdeep Singh made light of how a photo shoot with his countryman Avesh Khan helped him perform better after he lifted the trophy for India in the first ODI against South Africa.
Arshdeep and Avesh took to the skies during India’s eight-wicket triumph, hunting in pairs with devastating results as they skittled out the Proteas for a mere 116. It proved to be the lowest total of ODIs played on home soil for South Africa.
Following the match, Arshdeep made light of the fact that his performance was greatly influenced by a picture session he had with Avesh the day before the first ODI. In a video that BCCI released on X, Arshdeep stated, “It feels good, the photoshoot that I did with you (Avesh) has given me a big boost to produce a good performance here.”
Conversely, Avesh was one wicket shy of securing a five-wicket haul. He discussed how Arshdeep provided the perfect foundation for the other bowlers to build upon.
“My approach has been to focus on things that I can control because when I didn’t play T20, I focused on ODI cricket, which has greatly benefited me. My job was to bowl wicket to wicket, and it feels fantastic. I want to give it my all in every game, so I concentrate and support my preparation,” Avesh remarked.
With the surface providing plenty of grip for fast bowlers, Arshdeep achieved his first-ever five-for in the 50-over format, seemingly having the ball at his mercy.
Avesh, who bowled first change, was equally explosive and quick, finishing with stats of 4/27 in 8 overs. The nine wickets shared by both pacers in an ODI innings against South Africa was a record for Indian pacers. India will play South Africa in the second ODI of the series on Tuesday in Gqeberha, having won the first one.