The rivalry between South Africa and India in cricket has always been thrilling. Both teams have a rich history, and their matches are often intense and competitive. If you’re a cricket fan, understanding the stats between these two teams adds another layer of excitement when watching their games. Let’s take a detailed look at their head-to-head stats, focusing on their performances in different formats: Tests, ODIs, and T20s.
Head-to-Head: Tests
When it comes to Test cricket, South Africa and India have faced each other numerous times. Both teams are known for their strong performances in the longest format of the game. India’s strength has always been its spin bowling and batting, while South Africa’s fast bowlers have posed a challenge for Indian batsmen, especially on South African pitches.
- Matches Played: 43
- India Wins: 17
- South Africa Wins: 17
- Draws: 9
The results are almost evenly split, with both teams having won 17 matches each. However, India has dominated in recent years, especially when playing at home. South Africa, on the other hand, has had success on fast pitches in their home conditions.
Head-to-Head: One Day Internationals (ODIs)
ODIs between South Africa and India have produced some of the most exciting moments in cricket. Both teams have a history of powerful batting lineups and world-class bowlers.
- Matches Played: 90
- India Wins: 38
- South Africa Wins: 50
- No Result: 2
In ODIs, South Africa has a slight edge over India in terms of wins, but India has improved significantly over the last decade. Indian players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been consistent performers against South Africa, while South African legends like AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla have had great success against Indian bowlers.
Head-to-Head: T20 Internationals (T20Is)
In the T20 format, the rivalry between South Africa and India has grown rapidly. This format is all about big hits, fast-paced action, and thrilling finishes. Both teams have had their fair share of victories.
- Matches Played: 23
- India Wins: 13
- South Africa Wins: 9
- No Result: 1
India has an edge in the T20 format, with players like Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah playing crucial roles. South Africa, too, has talented T20 players who can change the course of a match in a few overs, but India’s overall consistency has given them the upper hand.
Individual Stats
Batting Records:
Some of the greatest cricketers in the world have played in matches between South Africa and India. Let’s look at the top run-scorers in these encounters.
- Sachin Tendulkar (India): 2001 runs in 57 innings (Tests & ODIs)
- Jacques Kallis (South Africa): 1734 runs in 48 innings (Tests & ODIs)
- Virat Kohli (India): 1484 runs in 38 innings (all formats)
- AB de Villiers (South Africa): 1505 runs in 44 innings (all formats)
Bowling Records:
The bowling attacks of both teams have always been top-notch, featuring fast bowlers and crafty spinners.
- Anil Kumble (India): 84 wickets in 21 matches (Tests)
- Shaun Pollock (South Africa): 31 wickets in 16 matches (ODIs)
- Kagiso Rabada (South Africa): 60 wickets in 11 matches (Tests)
- Ravichandran Ashwin (India): 55 wickets in 10 matches (Tests)
Memorable Moments
There have been several memorable moments when these two teams have faced each other. Some standout games include:
- India’s First Test Win in South Africa (2006): India defeated South Africa in Johannesburg by 123 runs, marking their first Test victory in South Africa.
- 2015 ODI Series in India: South Africa beat India 3-2 in the series, with AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis, and Quinton de Kock playing key roles.
2018 Test Series: India lost the series 2-1, but their victory in Johannesburg was a turning point in their overseas success under Virat Kohli’s leadership.
South Africa vs India Cricket Stats (Across All Formats)
| Format | Matches Played | India Wins | South Africa Wins | Draw/No Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test Matches | 43 | 17 | 17 | 9 |
| ODI Matches | 90 | 38 | 50 | 2 |
| T20I Matches | 23 | 13 | 9 | 1 |
Top Players – Batting Stats
| Player | Team | Runs Scored | Innings | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar | India | 2001 | 57 | Tests & ODIs |
| Jacques Kallis | South Africa | 1734 | 48 | Tests & ODIs |
| Virat Kohli | India | 1484 | 38 | All formats |
| AB de Villiers | South Africa | 1505 | 44 | All formats |
Top Players – Bowling Stats
| Player | Team | Wickets Taken | Matches | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anil Kumble | India | 84 | 21 | Tests |
| Shaun Pollock | South Africa | 31 | 16 | ODIs |
| Kagiso Rabada | South Africa | 60 | 11 | Tests |
| Ravichandran Ashwin | India | 55 | 10 | Tests |
Conclusion
The matches between South Africa and India have always been fiercely competitive, with both teams giving their all. Whether it’s Test cricket, ODIs, or T20s, fans can expect high-quality cricket every time these two sides face off. As their stats show, each team has its strengths and weaknesses, but the rivalry keeps growing, making every encounter exciting for fans around the world.
