Dharamsala, Oct 3 (IANS): South African captain Faf du Plessis lauded the efforts of his bowlers who pulled things back in the last few overs to restrict India to 199/5 in the first T20 international here at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium here on Friday.

South Africa chased the target of 200 runs down with seven wickets and two balls to spare. India were able to score only 41 in the last five overs after being at 158/1 at the end of 15. Kyle Abbott was the pick of the bowlers for the visitors bagging figures of 2/29 from his four.

"Kyle bowled exceptionally well. Today was one of those days where the bowlers were under the pump. The way our bowlers pulled things back towards the end probably was the turning point," du Plessis said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"What a game for both teams, the perfect start to the tour. Chasing 200 is a great thing at the start of the tour," he said.

The captain also praised the batting of J.P. Duminy who blasted a 34-ball 68 to get the tourists home.

"Duminy is a very experienced batsman, he played brilliantly and was well supported by (Farhaan) Behardien."