India, after being asked to bat first at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, produced a commanding total of 358/5 in the second ODI. The innings was anchored by superb centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad, who struck 105, and Virat Kohli, who compiled a fluent 102. Captain KL Rahul added the finishing touches with an unbeaten half-century, ensuring India crossed the 350-run mark with authority.
South Africa, in response, began their chase confidently. Despite Quinton de Kock’s early departure, Aiden Markram found his rhythm quickly and looked in great touch from the outset. Alongside skipper Temba Bavuma, he helped the Proteas rebuild and move steadily to 112/1 after 19 overs, keeping the visitors very much in the contest.
Markram, having reached his half-century in the 16th over, decided it was time to accelerate. Spotting a tossed-up delivery from Kuldeep Yadav, he went for a big hit down the ground. The ball seemed destined to clear the long-on boundary, and for a moment, it looked like a certain six was on its way.
But Tilak Varma had other ideas. Positioned perfectly on the rope, the young fielder launched into a stunning airborne dive. He caught the ball mid-flight and, in one seamless motion, flicked it back into play before his body crossed the boundary line. His timing, balance, and presence of mind made the effort look almost unreal.
That was a 100/100 effort by #TilakVarma! ✈
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 3, 2025
Came in as a substitute fielder, saved a certain six, and boosted the team’s spirit. 🙌#INDvSA 2nd ODI, LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/uUUTmlZugb pic.twitter.com/yDzPkJkAYL
Even as Tilak’s full momentum carried him outside the boundary cushion, he remained airborne long enough to keep the ball in play legally. The awareness he showed—extending his dive that extra fraction of a second before releasing the ball—turned what looked like a guaranteed six into an incredible save.
The spectacular piece of fielding drew immediate applause from the crowd and from his teammates on the field. KL Rahul could be seen clapping enthusiastically, acknowledging the brilliance of the effort. Social media soon followed, with fans and pundits alike praising Tilak for saving five vital runs and producing one of the standout moments of the match.