Aiden Markram Breaks Decade-long Drought with Century Against India

Aiden Markram has made history as he became the first South African opener in a decade to score an ODI century in India. Markram achieved this milestone during the second ODI held in Raipur on December 3, 2025, where he scored an impressive 110 runs. The last time a South African opener reached three figures in India was Quinton de Kock, back in 2015.

A Milestone Innings

This century was particularly significant for Markram. It marked his first ODI hundred in 25 innings as an opener. Previously, his three ODI centuries had come while batting at the No. 4 position. After an early dismissal in Ranchi, Markram approached the game with greater focus and discipline, managing the new ball effectively before accelerating once conditions improved.

Chasing a Challenging Target

The target for South Africa was a daunting 359 runs. Markram played an instrumental role in the chase, and his performance was enhanced by the dew that made batting easier later in the innings. He reached the 99-run mark with a powerful straight drive off Indian bowler Ravindra Jadeja, then completed his century with an elegant push to long-on from just 88 balls.

Key Highlights of Markram’s innings:

• Scored 110 runs in 88 balls.
• First ODI century by a visiting South African opener in India since 2015.
• Marked his first ODI hundred in 25 innings as an opener.
• Executed a blend of aggressive and disciplined strokes.

Although he celebrated the century, Markram was aware that South Africa still needed 182 runs to win, with eight wickets in hand. His wicket became a pivotal moment in the match. Harshit Rana, bowling in challenging conditions, managed to dismiss Markram with a well-disguised off-cutter, caught by Ruturaj Gaikwad.

South Africa’s innings started slowly, with Quinton de Kock being dismissed for just 8 runs in the fifth over. Captain Temba Bavuma then joined Markram, stabilizing the innings with a crucial partnership of 101 runs. Bavuma contributed 46 runs off 48 balls before attempting to increase the scoring rate, resulting in his dismissal.

Impact of the Dismissal

Following Markram’s departure, South Africa reached 197 for 3 after 30 overs. However, the pressure began to mount with the required run rate climbing. Markram’s dismissal proved to be a turning point, allowing India to regain control of the match at a critical juncture.

The effort displayed by Markram and his team underlined the competitive nature of international cricket, as South Africa continued to chase a formidable target on Indian soil.