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Tag: Centurion

  • Twitter reactions: Deadlock in Centurion as South Africa and Pakistan exchange blows on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test

    Twitter reactions: Deadlock in Centurion as South Africa and Pakistan exchange blows on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test

    Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test between South Africa and Pakistan unfolded as a gripping contest, with both teams refusing to give an inch. Set a modest target of 148, South Africa found themselves in trouble at 27/3 by stumps, courtesy of a fierce spell from Pakistan’s pacers. Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s lower order succumbed to the relentless brilliance of Marco Jansen, whose career-best 6/62 dismantled their second innings and left them with only a slender lead to defend. However, the visitors displayed remarkable resilience in the field, striking thrice in the final session to keep their hopes alive.

    Pakistan’s batting collapse: Saud Shakeel’s fighting knock

    The third day, after the first session got washed out due to rain, began with Pakistan resuming at 88/3, hoping to extend their lead significantly on a pitch that was gradually deteriorating. Saud Shakeel, continuing his fine form, looked determined to anchor the innings. However, Mohammad Rizwan‘s early dismissal to Jansen set the tone for a dismal morning for the visitors. Rizwan, attempting to counter Jansen’s aggressive short-ball strategy, edged to the slips for a mere 13 runs.

    This wicket opened the floodgates as Pakistan’s lower-middle order capitulated under relentless pressure. Jansen’s clever use of the uneven bounce and his ability to extract pace from the surface proved too much for the tailenders. Shakeel battled valiantly for his 84, showcasing immense skill and composure, but he found little support at the other end. Pakistan folded for 237, with Jansen’s career-best 6/62 dismantling any hopes of a substantial lead. The innings exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially under testing conditions.

    Early strikes from Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad rock South Africa

    South Africa’s chase of 148 runs began under overcast conditions, which further aided Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Mohammad Abbas struck in his very first over, trapping Tony de Zorzi with a delivery that jagged back sharply off the seam. Abbas, known for his pinpoint accuracy, exploited the conditions to perfection, giving Pakistan an ideal start.

    Khurram Shahzad then produced a moment of brilliance, dismissing Tristan Stubbs with a delivery that swung late and found the outside edge, leaving the batter stunned. Shahzad continued his fiery spell, targeting the body with short-pitched deliveries and eventually claiming Ryan Rickelton with a well-directed bouncer that took the top edge. By stumps, South Africa were in deep trouble at 27/3, with Pakistan’s pacers showcasing tremendous skill and determination to keep their team in the contest.

    Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad gets rid of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test – SA vs PAK

    Aiden Markram stands firm amidst the chaos

    Amid the carnage at the other end, Aiden Markram stood tall, demonstrating remarkable resilience and composure. His unbeaten 22 was a masterclass in adaptability, as he skillfully negotiated the testing conditions. Markram’s judgment outside the off-stump and his ability to counter the short ball were critical in ensuring South Africa did not collapse entirely under pressure.

    While his innings lacked flamboyance, it was rich in substance, as he absorbed the relentless pressure from Abbas and Shahzad. Recognizing the importance of preserving his wicket, Markram refrained from any rash strokes, focusing instead on building a foundation for the chase. As the day ended with South Africa requiring 121 runs and Pakistan needing seven wickets, Markram’s role in steering the innings forward remained pivotal. His ability to anchor the chase amidst the crumbling top order will likely define the outcome of this enthralling contest.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal passionately celebrates after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test



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  • Twitter reactions: South Africa takes charge over Pakistan as Corbin Bosch delivers a stellar performance on Day 2 of Centurion Test

    Twitter reactions: South Africa takes charge over Pakistan as Corbin Bosch delivers a stellar performance on Day 2 of Centurion Test

    South Africa’s rising star, Corbin Bosch, delivered a breathtaking debut performance to seize control of the first Test of the two-game series against Pakistan at SuperSport Park. Bosch, batting at No. 9, played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 81 off 93 balls, marking the highest score ever by a debutant at that position in Test cricket. His innings transformed South Africa’s modest lead into a commanding 90-run advantage, as the hosts were bowled out for 301 in response to Pakistan’s 211.

    Corbin Bosch’s heroics on debut propel South Africa to dominance

    Bosch’s innings was laced with 15 exquisite boundaries, showcasing his ability to combine technical precision with aggressive intent. His remarkable knock came under immense pressure after the team had lost wickets in quick succession, leaving the innings precariously placed at 213-8. The match swung decisively in South Africa’s favor, thanks to Bosch’s partnerships with the lower order. He first added 41 runs alongside Kagiso Rabada (13), steadying the ship after a mid-innings collapse, and then extended the lead further with a 47-run stand with last man Dane Paterson (12).

    Bosch batted with flair and confidence, displaying a wide range of strokes that left the Pakistan bowlers visibly frustrated. His ability to find gaps with precision cover drives and pull shots underlined his batting prowess. Despite being a fast bowler, Bosch’s first-class batting average of over 40 proved he was more than capable of stepping up in a critical situation. Bosch’s bowling contributions were equally impactful, as he finished with impressive first-innings figures of 4/63. His fiery pace and accuracy troubled the Pakistan batters throughout their innings.

    Pakistan stumbles in the face of South Africa’s lead

    South Africa’s bowlers built on Bosch’s heroics by putting Pakistan under immense pressure in their second innings. By the close of play on Day 2, the visitors were struggling at 88/3, still trailing by two runs. The opening pair of Saim Ayub (28) and captain Shan Masood (28) provided a positive start, counterattacking South Africa’s formidable pace attack with a 49-run opening stand. However, Pakistan’s progress was derailed as they lost three wickets for just 25 runs under deteriorating light conditions. Kagiso Rabada provided the breakthrough, dismissing Ayub with a searing delivery that knocked back his off stump.

    Marco Jansen further tightened South Africa’s grip by removing Masood and first-innings top-scorer Kamran Ghulam (8) in quick succession. Jansen exploited the gloomy conditions brilliantly, finding the outside edges of both batters with well-directed deliveries to slip and gully, respectively. Pakistan’s hopes now rest on Babar Azam (16 not out) and Saud Shakeel (8 not out), who showed some resistance before bad light brought an early end to the day’s play. With South Africa’s bowlers maintaining relentless pressure, the visitors face a daunting task to regain parity in the match.

    Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad gets rid of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test – SA vs PAK

    South Africa recovers after middle-order collapse

    Earlier, South Africa’s strong position came after overcoming a troubling collapse in their first innings. The team was cruising at 178/4 when a fiery spell from Naseem Shah triggered a dramatic slide, reducing them to 213/8. Naseem bowled a marathon 10-over spell, claiming three crucial wickets, including the prized scalp of opener Aiden Markram, who top-scored with a fluent 89. Markram missed out on what would have been his eighth Test century, edging a leg-side delivery from Khurram Shahzad to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. His dismissal left South Africa’s middle order vulnerable, with captain Temba Bavuma (31) and David Bedingham (30) also failing to convert their starts.

    Bavuma and Markram had earlier stabilized the innings with a 70-run fourth-wicket stand. However, Bavuma’s dismissal, edging a length ball from Aamer Jamal, opened the floodgates for Pakistan’s bowlers. Bedingham briefly counterattacked, smashing five boundaries in his 33-ball knock, but Naseem’s extra bounce proved too difficult to handle as Bedingham nicked a sharp delivery to first slip just before lunch. South Africa’s collapse seemed to hand the momentum back to Pakistan until Bosch’s late-order heroics turned the tide in dramatic fashion.

    Bosch’s counterattack, along with Paterson’s resilient batting, not only extended the lead but also demoralized Pakistan’s bowling attack. Paterson showcased his own batting abilities, hitting a straight six off the returning Mohammad Abbas (1/79), who was making his comeback after three years. Although Bosch fell short of what could have been a memorable debut century, his contribution ensured South Africa entered Pakistan’s second innings with momentum firmly on their side.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal passionately celebrates after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test



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  • Twitter reactions: South Africa rule Day 1 in Centurion as Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch devastate Pakistan’s batting

    Twitter reactions: South Africa rule Day 1 in Centurion as Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch devastate Pakistan’s batting

    The Day 1 of the first Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Centurion showcased a riveting contest as the hosts ended firmly in command. Pakistan, opting to bat first, struggled to cope with South Africa’s disciplined bowling, folding for 211 in their first innings. Dane Paterson delivered a phenomenal performance, claiming five wickets, while Corbin Bosch provided excellent support with four scalps. South Africa responded confidently, ending the day at 82/3, with Aiden Markram anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 47. The hosts trail by 129 runs and are in a commanding position heading into Day 2.

    Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch demolishes Pakistan

    Paterson was the star performer with the ball, producing a sensational spell to claim 5/61 in 16 overs. Utilizing the bounce and seam movement offered by the Centurion pitch, Paterson dismantled Pakistan’s top and middle order. He removed captain Shan Masood, the ever-reliable Mohammad Rizwan, and other batters with sharp, disciplined bowling. Pakistan never found momentum, losing wickets at regular intervals. Bosch’s impactful contribution (4/63) provided critical support, dismissing key players like Kamran Ghulam and Aamer Jamal. Together, the duo ensured that Pakistan’s innings lacked the partnerships needed for a substantial total.

    Also WATCH: Dane Paterson sends Babar Azam packing on Day 1 of the SA vs PAK 1st Test

    Kamran Ghulam stands tall amidst the collapse

    Ghulam was the lone warrior in Pakistan’s batting lineup, showcasing resilience with a fluent 54 off 71 balls. Arriving at the crease with Pakistan struggling at 40/2, Ghulam played a composed yet attacking knock, striking eight boundaries and a six. He combined with Rizwan in a crucial 81-run partnership for the fifth wicket, countering South Africa’s relentless attack. However, Paterson ended his resistance just before tea, triggering a lower-order collapse. While Jamal chipped in with a quick 28 off 27 balls, Pakistan’s innings faltered as they lost their last five wickets for just 74 runs, wrapping up at 211 in 57.3 overs.

    Aiden Markram guides South Africa’s reply

    In response, South Africa had a mixed start, losing Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton early to Khurram Shahzad’s disciplined bowling. At 24/2, the pressure was on Markram, who rose to the occasion with a confident and unbeaten 47. Markram played with authority, striking nine elegant boundaries and ensuring stability amidst the fall of wickets. Tristan Stubbs’ dismissal by Mohammad Abbas for 9 added to South Africa’s early woes, but Markram found a steady partner in Temba Bavuma, who remained unbeaten on 4. By stumps, the duo had guided South Africa to 82/3, setting up the platform for the hosts to seize control on the second day.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Fans mercilessly troll Babar Azam for his flop show with the bat on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test



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  • SA vs IND: Netizens go gaga over Tilak Varma’s blistering ton against South Africa in 3rd T20I

    SA vs IND: Netizens go gaga over Tilak Varma’s blistering ton against South Africa in 3rd T20I

    In a thrilling display of batting prowess, Tilak Varma scored his maiden international century, leading India to a commanding total against South Africa in the third T20I at Centurion’s SuperSport Park on Wednesday, November 13. His explosive knock not only thrilled fans but also sparked a wave of excitement on social media, with netizens praising his performance.

    A blistering knock from Tilak Varma

    Tilak came to the crease early in the match after the dismissal of Sanju Samson and quickly established himself as a key player. He formed a solid partnership with Abhishek Sharma, contributing to a remarkable 107-run stand for the second wicket. Varma’s century came off just 50 balls, showcasing his aggressive style with 8 fours and 7 sixes, and he finished his innings with a total of 107 runs from just 56 balls.

    During his innings, Varma demonstrated excellent shot selection and timing, particularly in the death overs, where he accelerated India’s scoring rate significantly. His performance was crucial in helping India post a formidable total of 219 runs for 6 wickets.

    Following his century, social media erupted with praise for Varma. Fans took to platforms like Twitter expressing their admiration for the young batter. Comments ranged from calling him the “future of Indian cricket” to highlighting his potential to become a mainstay in the national team. Many users shared clips of his explosive shots, further amplifying the excitement surrounding his performance.

    Also READ: SA vs IND: Ramandeep Singh makes his T20I debut. Who sits out for India in 3rd T20I?

    https://twitter.com/yadavshivam379/status/1856741265729110367

    Also READ: WACA to be under cover for India’s intra squad game ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25



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  • Twitter reactions: Dean Elgar’s counter century after KL Rahul’s ton on Day 2 tightens South Africa’s grip in Centurion Test

    Twitter reactions: Dean Elgar’s counter century after KL Rahul’s ton on Day 2 tightens South Africa’s grip in Centurion Test

    The sun-drenched Centurion stadium bore witness to an exhilarating clash between cricketing titans South Africa and India on the second day of the Boxing Day Test . It was a day that unfolded with a display of skill, determination, and resilience, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

    KL Rahul’s masterclass rescues India

    Starting the day at 208 for 8, India were in a precarious position when KL Rahul resumed his innings at 70 runs. What followed was nothing short of a masterclass in batting as the right-handed batter went on to slam a sensational ton.

    Rahul’s eighth Test century not only salvaged India’s innings but propelled them to a competitive total of 245. His innings showcased not only his remarkable skill but also his ability to anchor the innings and form crucial partnerships with the lower-order batters.

    Dean Elgar shines as South Africa strengthens control

    As India’s innings concluded, South Africa faced the daunting task of closing down on visitor’s total. The Proteas, however, encountered early troubles with the loss of Aiden Markram. Yet, Elgar and Tony de Zorzi stepped up to the challenge, building a solid 93-run partnership.

    Elgar’s innings was nothing short of sensational as he hammered a brilliant century, ably supported by David Bedingham‘s gritty 56. The South African innings closed at 256-5, giving them an 11-run lead and ending the day on a positive note.

    Also WATCH: Overjoyed Virat Kohli comes up with a heartwarming reaction to KL Rahul’s brilliant ton in Centurion Test

    Bowling Brilliance: Bumrah and Siraj

    Jasprit Bumrah emerged as the bowling star for India, providing crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs when the game seemed to slip away. Bumrah claimed two wickets, well complemented by Mohammed Siraj, who also scalped two. The duo’s performance injected hope into India’s camp, showcasing their ability to fight back against a formidable South African batting lineup.

    With a lead in hand, South Africa will be eyeing to extend their advantage on Day 3. Elgar’s sensational century has set the stage, and the Proteas will aim to build a substantial lead against the Indian side. On the other side, India will be eager to bundle out the Proteas as early as possible in the morning session.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: Athiya Shetty reacts on her husband KL Rahul’s classic ton at Centurion – SA vs IND, 1st Test



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  • South Africa coach provides update on Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi’s availability for the 1st Test against India

    South Africa coach provides update on Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi’s availability for the 1st Test against India

    In anticipation of the upcoming Test series against India, South Africa‘s coach, Shukri Conrad, has provided a crucial update on the availability of key pacers Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi. Following the setback of losing the One Day International (ODI) series to a Rohit Sharma-less Team India, the Proteas are keen on making a strong comeback in the Test format. The two Tests are scheduled to take place in Centurion from December 26-30 and in Cape Town from January 3-7, 2024.

    South Africa Coach’s take on Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi’s fitness

    Rabada has been contending with a recent heel injury, while Ngidi has been recovering from an ankle issue. However, Coach Conard expressed optimism about both pacers, affirming that they remain integral parts of the squad and are available for selection in the Boxing Day Test match on December 26.

    “They are both here with us and that means they are available for selection as things stand. We have not called anybody in as a replacement and hopefully come the morning of the match we have 15 fit players to select from,” Conrad was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

    Also READ: SA vs IND, 2023-24: South Africa’s best playing XI for the first Test against India

    Young sensation Gerald Coetzee

    Conard has also shed light on the promising 23-year-old fast bowler, Gerald Coetzee, who showcased his skills during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 in India. Describing Coetzee as a relatively new entrant in Test cricket, Conard emphasized his phenomenal performance every time he takes the field, irrespective of the format.

    “He’s still a baby in Test cricket. He’s been phenomenal every time he’s stepped onto the field, whether it be with the white ball in his hand or the red one. This is just going to be another step. He brings aggression, he brings something that we’ve always prided ourselves on as South Africans, which is pace. He brings all of those elements and hopefully through the experience he builds in the (T20) league’s and playing for South Africa with the white and red ball, in a couple of years’ time he can be leading our bowling attack,”  the 56-year-old concluded.

    Last Test series between South Africa and India

    During the series between both sides in Proteas land, India secured a victory in the first Test held in Centurion. Nevertheless, South Africa mounted a comeback, winning matches in Johannesburg and Cape Town, ultimately clinching the series 2-1. As the teams gear up for the upcoming Test series, the availability of key players adds a layer of anticipation to the cricketing contest.

    Also READ: Star India all-rounder Shardul Thakur reveals the ‘most difficult country’ to play Test cricket

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  • Sunil Gavaskar handpicks India’s playing XI for the ‘boxing day’ Test against South Africa in Centurion

    Sunil Gavaskar handpicks India’s playing XI for the ‘boxing day’ Test against South Africa in Centurion

    As the much-anticipated two-match Test series between South Africa and India is scheduled to commence on Tuesday (December 26) in Centurion, the return of key Indian players adds vigor to the lineup after their hiatus following the ODI World Cup 2023 Final loss against Australia. Offering his strategic insights for the Boxing Day Test, legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar, speaking on Star Sports, has put forth his envisioned playing XI.

    Sunil Gavaskar’s ideal Indian Playing XI: Batting department

    According to Gavaskar, the opening duo will comprise Rohit Sharma and the promising Yashasvi Jaiswal, injecting a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. In a tactical move, Gavaskar advocated for Shubman Gill to retain the number three position, a role he recently played in the recent West Indies Test series, with Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer anchoring the middle order at 4, 5 and 6, respectively.

    “My Playing XI is going to be very simple. The openers will be a [Yashasvi] Jaiswal and captain Rohit Sharma. Shubman Gill number three, number four [Virat] Kohli. Number five KL Rahul, number six Shreyas Iyer, or five and six that can move here and there,” Gavaskar said.

    Bowling Attack: Two spinners and three pacers

    Irrespective of the conditions at Centurion, Gavaskar underscored the importance of playing two spinners and recommends the seasoned pair of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin to fulfill this crucial role.

    Addressing the pace attack, the Mumbai-born cricketer suggested the inclusion of Bengal seamer Mukesh Kumar, partnering with the experienced Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, especially in the absence of Mohammed Shami, who remains sidelined due to fitness concerns stemming from an ankle injury sustained during the CWC 2023.

    “After that, it will be Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin. And then the three fast bowlers, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj,” the 74-year-old concluded.

    Also READ: Top 5 prolific century scorers in South Africa vs India Test series

    Two new inclusions in India’s squad for South Africa Tests

    In terms of squad changes, KS Bharat and Abhimanyu Easwaran have been introduced, replacing Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad. As India strives to secure their maiden Test series victory in South Africa, the chosen playing XI by Indian stalwart reflects a strategic balance of experience, youth, and adaptability to the challenging conditions, encapsulating the team’s strong resolve for success

    Also READ: Star India all-rounder Shardul Thakur reveals the ‘most difficult country’ to play Test cricket

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