Daijiworld Media Network – Northampton

Northampton, Jul 23: India Champions’ defence of their World Championship of Legends (WCL) title got off to a disastrous start as they suffered a heavy 88-run defeat (via DLS method) to South Africa Champions in their campaign opener on Monday.

Opting to skip their opening clash against Pakistan Champions due to political tensions, Yuvraj Singh and his team finally began their tournament against the Proteas – only to be outclassed in all departments.

South Africa captain AB de Villiers put on a vintage show, smashing an unbeaten 63 off just 30 deliveries to guide his side to a formidable 208/6 in 20 overs. His performance wasn’t just limited to the bat – de Villiers also pulled off a stunning fielding effort that left the crowd and commentators awestruck.

In the 8th over of India’s innings, Yusuf Pathan attempted a powerful lofted shot off spinner Imran Tahir. Positioned near long-on, de Villiers sprinted and slid to take the catch but, realising he would cross the boundary line, smartly tossed the ball mid-air to teammate Sarel Erwee. Erwee completed the catch with a superb dive, showcasing brilliant teamwork and reflexes.

India Champions’ reply never really took off. Skipper Yuvraj Singh did not come out to bat after sustaining a niggle while fielding. Veterans like Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu and Yusuf Pathan failed to build momentum as the team crumbled to 111/9 when rain brought an early end to the match.

With this emphatic win, South Africa Champions stamped their authority early in the tournament, while India Champions are left to regroup quickly if they hope to retain their crown.