A pair of superb half-centuries from Aiden Markram and David Miller got South Africa over the line, but the platform for their nervy, thrilling T20 World Cup win over India in Perth on Sunday was laid by the seamers.
The victory sees the Proteas move to the top of Pool 2 with two games to play - against Pakistan and the Netherlands - and they have now taken a significant step towards qualifying for the tournament's semi-finals.
India won the toss and batted first, but with the pace and bounce of the wicket playing directly into the hands of the Proteas bowling attack, they were soon on the ropes, and that was almost all down to man of the match Lungi Ngidi.
The 26-year-old came on as the first change bowler and made an immediate impact, getting rid of both Indian openers and then Virat Kohli to reduce the pre-match favourites to 41/3.