Indian batsmen made strong statement with their calm body-language: Sachin Tendulkar

Former captain Sachin Tendulkar was pleased to see the way India defeated South Africa in their World Cup 2019 opening match with a clinical performance but he also sympathised with the Proteas, who have been hit by multiple injuries to key players like Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi in this tournament.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, South Africa posted a below-par 227 for nine in their 50 overs as wily wrist-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal returned figures of 4-51 following a superb opening burst from seamer Jasprit Bumrah (2-35).

India were cautious in their reply and the game was in the balance when Virat Kohli (18) was brilliantly caught by wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock with the score on 54 for two in the 16th over.

But Rohit Sharma made sure the team got over the finish line without any hiccups with a calm and composed 122 not out off 144 balls with good support from MS Dhoni (34) and KL Rahul (26).