'We did not have the game to get to 300' - Reeza Hendricks praises Indian bowlers for impressive performance in second ODI

Reeza Hendricks scored crucial 74 runs off 76 balls to guide South Africa to a challenging total of 278/7 while batting first in the second ODI match against India. The in-form batter missed all three T20Is and was also ignored for the first ODI match. But he was included in the second ODI clash in the absence of captain Temba Bavuma and he proved his worth once again.

While playing in the number three position, he formed a big 129-run partnership for the third wicket with Aiden Markram after Proteas' early fall. He scored 74 runs off 76 balls with the help of nine fours and a six before getting caught out by Shahbaz Ahmed on Mohammed Siraj's delivery in 32nd over.

It was a tricky wicket, not easy for a new batter: Reeza Hendricks

After the innings, he seemed happy with his contribution but regretted over missing the hundred. Reeza also lauded the Indian bowlers' late comeback to restrict his team below the 300-run mark.

"Nice to get out there and contribute to the team. I would have loved to get to three figures but will take the contribution. It was nice to bat with Aiden and to set up a good score. We got out at the wrong time, should have pushed to be at the end. We were thinking at least 285 and 300 was on the cards if one of us stayed through. They bowled well at the end. It was a tricky wicket, not easy for a new batter. We did not have the game to get to 300," Reeza said after first innings.

Siraj, who struggled for wickets in the first ODI, took three wickets, including valuable wickets of Quinton de Kock, Reeza while conceding only 38 runs in his 10-over spell. Debutant Shahbaz and returning all-rounder Washington Sundar also took one wicket each to prove their potential. It was an overall impressive performance from the entire bowling unit, which has struggled to impress lately.