South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi was delighted after his match-winning performance against India in the second T20I, which they won by five wickets (DLS method) at St George’s Park, Gqeberha on Tuesday to draw first blood in the series. The leg-spinner bowled a fine spell of 1-18 in his quota of four overs and he was the most economical bowler from both sides.

Shamsi was also able to get the big wicket of Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who was looking dangerous after scoring 5. In fact, all the bowlers from both sides conceded their runs at more than 8.50 but Shamsi was exceptional in his spell.

The pitch was on the slow side in the first innings and Shamsi was able to make the most of the conditions. On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav found it difficult to bowl with the wet ball in the second innings after rain intervened.

Shamsi was awarded Player of the Match for his fine performance and he was glad to deliver for his team.

He said in the post-match presentation, “I packed that celebration away (on shoe-celebration), but the kids keep asking me to bring it about, so can’t disappoint them. To be able to deliver under pressure against India was pleasing.”

On getting the big wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, Shamsi said, “He is a wonderful player and he has shown that again today. Aiden was brilliant with his changes. Since Rob has come in, he has created a brilliant environment in the team. He pushes hard in the field but also allows us to enjoy with our families. The results are there to show on the field.”

Shamsi will look to continue the good show for the Proteas and he is going to hold the key in the last game of the series. The third and final T20I of the series will be played at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg on Thursday.