Tag: SA vs IND

  • 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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  • SA vs IND 2024: Patrick Kruger misses second T20I between South Africa and India: Reasons Explained

    SA vs IND 2024: Patrick Kruger misses second T20I between South Africa and India: Reasons Explained

    The luck was once again on Aiden Markram & Co.’s side as the South African skipper won the toss and chose to bowl first in the second T20I of the four-match series. Playing at the St. George’s Park, Gqeberha, Markram revealed that the overcast condition was a major factor in deciding to let India set a target, to have a better assessment of the plans.

    After a sensational win in the first fixture, India were always going to enter the contest with a huge amount of confidence. The Men in Blue skipper, Suryakumar Yadav also explained the rationale behind picking a playing combination that helps in maintaining the good habits with regard to a team.

    South Africa made a single change ahead of the second encounter, as top-order batter Reeza Hendricks came back in place of Patrick Kruger, as the hosts felt him as the better addition to chase the target down at the St. George’s Park, as reckoned by captain Markram at the toss. Hendricks wasn’t available for the opening encounter, and Kruger was added to the XI, however, the batter had to vacate his place given the incoming of Hendricks, and naturally so.

    Not concerned about outcome or result: Markram

    “We are going to bowl first again. With rain around, that’s the obvious part. Hope the bowlers use the moisture. Kruger is out, Hendricks is in. We are not concerned about the outcome or result,” Markram was quoted as saying at the toss.

    The Indian team, on the other hand, did not make any changes and chose to stick to their winning combination, as Suryakumar reasoned maintaining good habits as the factor for not making unnecessary changes to their Playing XI.

    “We wanted to bat first and play same brand of cricket, happy with the things in the last match. You always learn something or the other in every game. We want to continue the good habits. No changes, playing with the same XI,” the Indian captain told.

    Also Check: SA vs IND Live Score, 2nd T20I

    SA vs IND 2024, 2nd T20I: Playing XIs

    India: Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Avesh Khan

    South Africa: Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (c), Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Andile Simelane, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Nqabayomzi Peter

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  • Twitter reactions: Sanju Samson smashes multiple records with his explosive century | SA vs IND, 1st T20I

    Twitter reactions: Sanju Samson smashes multiple records with his explosive century | SA vs IND, 1st T20I

    In a scintillating display of power-hitting, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson made history during the first T20I against South Africa in Durban on Friday (November 8). Samson achieved an extraordinary feat, scoring 107 runs off just 50 balls, smashing 10 sixes and 7 fours. He brought up his half-century in just 27 balls and completed his next 50 runs in a mere 20 balls, showing incredible aggression and timing. His sensational knock set the stage for India to post a formidable total of 202/8. Samson’s departure came when he tried to launch a second six off Nqabayomzi Peter, only to be caught by Tristan Stubbs in the deep.

    India’s strong foundation with Sanju Samson’s brilliance

    Samson’s blistering century was the highlight of India’s innings, but he was ably supported by Tilak Varma (33) and captain Suryakumar Yadav (21), who provided crucial contributions in the middle order. Despite Samson’s departure, India’s powerful start ensured they were in a strong position heading into the latter stages of their innings. Aiden Markram, who won the toss and chose to bowl first, handed a debut to young all-rounder Andile Simelane. However, despite the debutant’s energy, India’s attack proved overwhelming.

    Gerald Coetzee shines for South Africa with three wickets

    For South Africa, pacer Gerald Coetzee was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets for 37 runs. His disciplined bowling, combined with smart field placements, helped the Proteas peg India back in the later stages of the innings. While Samson’s fireworks had set a daunting target, Coetzee’s efforts at the death ensured that India could not completely run away with the game. Nevertheless, the foundation laid by Samson and the middle order provided India with enough momentum to challenge South Africa’s batting in the chase.

    Also WATCH: Abhishek Sharma falls to a stunning backward catch by Aiden Markram in the 1st T20I

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Samson breaks records with his masterful century 

    Samson’s 107-run knock set multiple records, including the highest individual score by an Indian batter in Men’s T20Is against South Africa, surpassing Rohit Sharma‘s previous record of 106 runs set in 2015. Additionally, his knock stands as the highest score by an Indian batter on South African soil in Men’s T20Is, a record that was held by Suryakumar after his 100 runs in December 2023. Samson’s 107 also becomes the fourth-highest score by any batter in Men’s T20Is against South Africa, trailing behind Babar Azam (122), Johnson Charles (118) and Chris Gayle (117).

    Samson achieved yet another significant milestone, becoming the joint seventh-fastest Indian to reach 7000 runs in T20s. With his 7000th run coming in his 269th innings, he joined Robin Uthappa in this exclusive club. This achievement further showcases his consistency and longevity in the T20 format, with Samson continuing to build on his impressive career statistics. As one of the fastest Indian batters to reach this landmark, his ability to deliver in the shortest format of the game makes him an integral part of India’s T20 squad.

    Samson’s exceptional knock in the first T20I against South Africa has not only propelled India to a commanding total but has also established him as one of the leading T20I batters in world cricket. His record-breaking performances are a testament to his skill, consistency, and ability to rise to the occasion in big matches.

    Also READ: Top 5 best bowling figures in the South Africa vs India T20I series ft. Kuldeep Yadav



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  • BCCI and Cricket South Africa announce schedule for a four-match T20I series in November

    BCCI and Cricket South Africa announce schedule for a four-match T20I series in November

    India will be locking horns with South Africa once again as the two cricketing giants have confirmed a four-match T20I series scheduled for November 2024. This announcement, made in a joint release by Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), marks India’s second consecutive year touring the rainbow nation.

    CSA and BCCI express enthusiasm for the upcoming series

    The series kicks off on November 8th at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, the same venue where a rain shower washed out a T20I during India’s 2023-24 tour that ended in a 1-1 draw. The tour then moves to Gqeberha for the second match on November 10th. The final two T20Is will be played in the Highveld, with Centurion hosting the third match on November 13th, followed by the series finale at the DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on November 15th.

    Lawson Naidoo, the CSA Chairperson, acknowledged the “amazing camaraderie and exciting cricket” that India’s tours bring. He also emphasized the excitement South African fans have for witnessing the exceptional talent from both teams.

    “I would like to thank the BCCI for their continued support to South Africa’s cricket, and world cricket in general. Any tour by the Indian cricket team to our shores is filled with amazing camaraderie and exciting cricket, and I know our fans will be eagerly awaiting this series which will showcase the exceptional talent from both teams,” Lawson Naidoo, the CSA Chairperson, said in his official statement.

    Also Check: Latest ICC Rankings

    BCCI Secretary Jay Shah echoed the sentiment, highlighting the “deep and strong bond” shared by India and South Africa. He recalled the immense appreciation Indian teams receive from South African fans, a feeling reciprocated by Indian fans towards the Proteas. Shah further expressed confidence that the series will showcase cricketing excellence and deliver thrilling, high-intensity contests.

    “India and South Africa have always shared a deep and strong bond, one that both nations take great pride in. The Indian Cricket Team has consistently received immense appreciation and love from South African fans, and this sentiment is equally strong among Indian fans towards the South African side. I am confident that the upcoming series will once again highlight the on-field cricketing excellence and deliver enthralling, high-intensity contests,” said BCCI secretary Jay Shah.

    Schedule for India’s tour of South Africa 2024:

    • November 8: 1st T20I, Kingsmead Stadium
    • November 10: 2nd T20I, St George’s Park
    • November 13: 3rd T20I, SuperSport Park
    • November 14: 4th T20I, Wanderers

    Also READ: Gautam Gambhir stands out as a frontrunner for Team India’s head coach position

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  • Rohit Sharma brutally slams critics of Indian pitches following conclusion of shortest Test match in South Africa

    Rohit Sharma brutally slams critics of Indian pitches following conclusion of shortest Test match in South Africa

    As the dust settled at Newlands following the exhilarating second Test of India’s tour to South Africa, one couldn’t help but be captivated by the sheer drama that unfolded on the pitch. The Newlands surface, initially appearing benign, revealed its deceptive nature as a whopping 23 wickets tumbled on the very first day of action, ultimately causing the game to end in less than two days. Notably, the guests emerged triumphant, clinching a seven-wicket victory over the Dean Elgar-led side.

    However, the real fireworks ignited off the pitch as Indian skipper Rohit Sharma took centre stage. In a no-holds-barred critique, Sharma’s words injected excitement into the debates surrounding Indian pitch conditions.

    ‘You come here to challenge yourself’: Rohit Sharma on playing in South Africa

    Rohit boldly declared his acceptance of challenging pitches, asserting his readiness to face such conditions. With unapologetic enthusiasm, the latter then aimed a verbal barrage at critics who had dared to question the quality of pitches used in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023, which was played in India.

    “I don’t mind being on pitches like this as long as everyone keeps their mouth shut in India and no one is talking about the pitches there,” Rohit said Thursday after the match. Yes, it is dangerous, but you come here (South Africa) to challenge yourself, and you must face up to it,” Rohit said in the post-match press conference.

    Also WATCH: Virat Kohli makes a heartfelt gesture towards South Africa’s retiring star Dean Elgar on Day 1 of the Cape Town Test

    Rohit’s unapologetic stand on Newlands pitch and criticism of Indian pitches

    Adopting an assertive stance called for impartiality in pitch assessments, particularly emphasizing the role of match referees. Expressing disbelief in the World Cup 2023 final pitch being rated below standard, he urged a fair evaluation based on performance rather than preconceived notions about countries. The right-handed openers’ aggressive tone demanded a shift in the approach to pitch ratings, focusing on objective observations and eliminating biases.

    “When it turns on day one in India, people say, ‘Oh, there is a puff of dust’. We need to stay neutral, especially match referees. I would love to see how the pitches are rated. I still can’t believe the World Cup final pitch was rated below standard. A player got a hundred there. They must rate pitches based on what they see, not based on countries,” the 36-year-old added.

    Also READ: Top 5 lowest team totals against India in Test cricket

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  • Twitter Reactions: South Africa trail by 36 as 23 wickets tumble on Day 1 in Cape Town

    Twitter Reactions: South Africa trail by 36 as 23 wickets tumble on Day 1 in Cape Town

    The Day 1 of the second Test between South Africa and India played at Newlands, Cape Town on Wednesday, January 03 was full of action as a total of 23 wickets fell in the day. South Africa finished the day batting in their second innings as they were on 62/3 trailing India by 36 runs with David Bedingham (7*) and Aiden Markram (36*) at the crease.

    The day began with South Africa captain Dean Elgar winning the toss and electing to bat first. Captain Elgar and Markram got off to a cautious start in the first innings scoring five runs in the first three overs before Mohammed Siraj found his rhythm and got rid of the duo. At the other end, Jasprit Bumrah accounted for the debutant Tristan Stubbs to leave South Africa on 11/3.

    Also Read: SA vs IND: Virat Kohli’s masterplan to dismiss Jansen, helps Siraj complete five-for on Day 1

    Siraj continued his mayhem and ended up registering his best figures in Tests (6/15) to bundle out the Proteas for their lowest Test score since re-admission in international cricket. In reply, India got off to a decent start in their innings as they were 105/3 after 21 overs with captain Rohit Sharma (39) and Shubman Gill (36) getting dismissed after making vital contributions.

    Virat Kohli (46) and KL Rahul (8) further added 43 runs for the fifth wicket to help their side cross the 150-run mark with the loss of four wickets. However, Lungi Ngidi (3/30) completely changed the face of the game with his triple-wicket maiden as he dismissed, Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja (0) and Jasprit Bumrah (0).

    Kagiso Rabada (3/38) made matters worse for the visitors from the other end getting the prized scalp of Kohli and tailender Prasidh Krishna while Siraj lost his wicket due to an unfortunate run out. As a result, India lost six wickets in 11 balls and got bundled out for 153 leading by 98 runs. Notably, India recorded six ducks in their innings which is the joint highest in Test history. They also got the ignominy of becoming the first team to lose six wickets without scoring a single run in Test history.

    Dean Elgar was given a warm send-off by India 

    In the second innings, South Africa began their innings positively with openers Elgar and Markram adding 37 runs for the first wicket. Mukesh Kumar struck the first blow for India by dismissing Elgar (12), who was given a rousing reception both by the crowd and Indian players with the ongoing Test being the last of his career. Virat Kohli even walked up to him and hugged him to congratulate on a fantastic career while other players shook his hand.

    Also Read: ‘Way higher than what Ash did to you’ – Kohli reminds Elgar of controversial LBW review from 2022

    Meanwhile, Kumar further dismissed Tony de Zorzi (1) and Bumrah accounted for Tristan Stubbs (1) to leave South Africa on 62/3 at the end of the day’s play.

    X was abuzz with reactions on an action-packed day of Test cricket in Cape Town. Here are some of the posts:

     

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  • ‘You got to show some faith’ – Rohit Sharma hints at persisting with Prasidh Krishna in Cape Town Test

    ‘You got to show some faith’ – Rohit Sharma hints at persisting with Prasidh Krishna in Cape Town Test

    Team India will be desperate to make a strong comeback in the two-match Test series against South Africa as they take them on in the second Test on Wednesday, January 02 at Newlands, Cape Town. The Rohit Sharma-led side was hammered by an innings and 32 runs in the opening game in Centurion having failed to score 400 runs across two innings and getting bundled out for 245 and 131 respectively.

    Hence, the second Test proves to be a must-win affair for the world’s number one-ranked Test side who will be desperate to avoid another series loss in South Africa. Ahead of the game, India captain Rohit Sharma hinted at sticking with the same bowling attack in the second Test despite the below-par performances of Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur saying that he needs to show faith in them.

    Also Read: ‘Overrated team in Tests and T20Is’ – Krishnamachari Srikkanth’s massive remark on India

    “I still feel that sometimes we’ve got a little bit of inexperience in our bowling and sometimes when you have that, you got to show some faith in them. Show trust in them and that can happen to any team. But obviously for us, like I said in the last post-match press conference about Prasidh being playing his first game, we all get nervous when you’re playing your first game. It’s understandable,” Sharma was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

    Notably, Sharma had stated that Krishna seemed nervous on his Test debut as he registered figures of 1/93 in 20 overs. However, he still believes he’s got what it takes to succeed in Tests.

    “I’ll still back that thought of mine, saying that he’s got good ability to succeed at this level and especially in this format. So it’s just about showing faith and trust in everyone and getting the job done from them,” he added.

    Krishna was a part of team India’s practice session in Centurion on December 30 where he was seen working with the Indian bowling coach Paras Mhambrey on his line and length. He was further seen bowling along with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj on Monday, January 1 in Cape Town.

    Further speaking ahead, the Indian skipper revealed that they haven’t finalized their playing XI yet and everyone is available for selection with no one injured.

    Also Check: Green-tinged surface grabs attention ahead of South Africa-India Cape Town Test

    Everyone is available for selection, there’s no injury concern: Rohit Sharma

    “Although we’ve had a brief chat with the management, the coaching staff, what we want from this game and what we want from the bowlers in this game, we’ve not completely finalised our playing level. Obviously, everyone is available for selection. There’s no injury concern. All of them who are here are available to play. We’ll sit down in the evening,” he said.

    Notably, India haven’t won a Test in Cape Town in six attempts having lost four games at the venue while two have been drawn. The Asian giants will be desperate for a win in the upcoming fixture to tie just their second Test series in South Africa having lost seven out of eight times so far.

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  • IND vs SA: Virat Kohli smacks R. Ashwin for monstrous six during practice session ahead of Cape Town Test

    IND vs SA: Virat Kohli smacks R. Ashwin for monstrous six during practice session ahead of Cape Town Test

    After a crushing defeat in the first Test in Centurion by an innings and 32 runs, team India will be desperate to make a comeback as they take on South Africa in the second Test from Wednesday, January 03 at Newlands, Cape Town. Ahead of the game, the Rohit Sharma-led side reached Cape Town on Monday, January 1 and began their practice sessions.

    Star batter Virat Kohli, who was India’s top run scorer in the first game scoring 114 runs across two innings, was seen toiling hard in the nets to prepare for the second game. The 35-year-old was seen at his attacking best during practice as he danced down the track to smack Ravichandran Ashwin for a six over his head. The clip of the session has gone viral on social media as fans can’t wait to see Kohli in action in the second game.

    Also Check: Unseen clip showing dejected Virat Kohli’s reaction after WC 2023 final loss goes viral

    Notably, Kohli looked in good touch during the first innings in Centurion as he scored 38 before getting dismissed by a peach of a delivery by Kagiso Rabada. Later in the second innings, he was the lone warrior from India scoring 76 (82) with the help of 12 fours and a six as India got bundled out for just 131.

    India have a chance to draw their second Test series in SA

    The Delhi-born batter has a stellar record in South Africa having 833 runs to his name from 16 innings at an average of 52.06 with two hundreds and two fifties to his name. The former India captain will be once again expected to do the bulk of the scoring in the second Test to start the year 2024 with a bang and help India make a comeback in the series.

    Also Read: How did Virat Kohli perform in 2023 as compared to 2022?

    Notably, India haven’t won a Test series in South Africa in nine attempts and have managed to draw just once in 2011 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. Hence, the upcoming game is extremely crucial for the Rohit Sharma-led side with crucial World Test Championship points at stake as well.

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  • IND vs SA: Bail-flip expert Stuart Broad reacts as Virat Kohli steals his trick to dismiss De Zorzi

    IND vs SA: Bail-flip expert Stuart Broad reacts as Virat Kohli steals his trick to dismiss De Zorzi

    South Africa finished Day 2 with an 11-run lead over India during the first Test of the two-match series at SuperSport Park, Centurion. Dean Elgar starred with the bat for the hosts scoring his 14th Test century (140* off 211) as he took his side to 256/5 at stumps on Day 2. Earlier in the day, KL Rahul resumed his innings on 70* and completed his 8th Test century (101 off 137)  to help India reach 245 in their first innings.

    Apart from the two centuries, another interesting moment became the highlight of the day as Virat Kohli used former England fast bowler Stuart Broad’s trick of flipping the bails to get a wicket. The former India captain flipped the bails at the striker’s end ahead of the 29th over of South Africa’s innings where Tony de Zorzi was about to face Jasprit Bumrah. 

    Also Read: Twitter Reactions: Dean Elgar’s tenacious ton frustrates India as Proteas take 11-run lead on Day 2

    And much to everyone’s surprise, Zorzi ended up getting dismissed on the last ball of the over as he edged one straight to third slip and India managed to break the 93-run stand. Bumrah further got rid of Keegan Petersen in his very next over as the South African batter chopped one back onto his stumps. Kohli’s act also got a reaction from Broad who asked him if the trick was successful in getting a wicket for India?

    Notably, Broad had used the superstitious bail-flip move during the fifth Test of the Ashes 2023 at Kennington Oval, London which helped England get wickets twice in the game. First, he tried the trick on Day 2 as he flipped the bail at the striker’s end ahead of the fifth ball of the 43rd over of Australia’s first innings.

    Stuart Broad dismissed Marnus Labuschagne and Todd Murphy with bail-flip trick

    On the very next ball, Mark Wood found the outside edge of Labuschagne’s bat which carried straight to Joe Root at slips. Later on Day 5, England were searching for the last two wickets to seal a win with Australia requiring 55 runs for a victory. Broad, who was possibly bowling the last over of his Test career had he not picked the wicket, once again decided to change his luck by flipping the bails and found the edge of Todd Murphy’s bat and got his first wicket of the second innings.

    The veteran seamer signed off from international cricket in style by picking the last wicket of the Test as well and helped England level the series 2-2. Speaking about the peculiar technique, Broad had revealed that it was an Australian way of changing luck which he saw off-spinner Nathan Lyon doing on quite a few occasions.

    Also Read: ‘It’s an Aussie change-of-luck thing’ – Stuart Broad opens up on bail flip tactic

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  • WATCH: KL Rahul replies to Marco Jansen’s fierce sledging with a calm smile – SA vs IND, 1st Test

    WATCH: KL Rahul replies to Marco Jansen’s fierce sledging with a calm smile – SA vs IND, 1st Test

    The first Test of India tour to South Africa unfolded with a notable mix of cricketing brilliance and intense confrontations. Amidst India’s challenging first innings, a moment that seized the limelight was the heated exchange between South African pacer Marco Jansen and Indian batter KL Rahul.

    The opening day witnessed a fierce battle not only between bat and ball but also in the verbal exchanges on the field. The heated moment added an extra layer of intensity to an already competitive match, showcasing the passionate spirit of the cricketing giants.

    KL Rahul’s response to Marco Jansen’s sledging

    The scenario unfolded during the first innings when Jansen delivered a ball to Rahul, who skillfully played it back to the bowler. However, the Proteas pacer initiated a verbal exchange directed at the Indian wicket-keeper. Despite the intensity of Jansen’s words, Rahul responded with a sheepish smile, maintaining a peaceful demeanor. Although Jansen appeared disinclined to engage in conversation, his fiery emotions were unmistakably evident.

    In stark contrast, Rahul maintained his characteristic composure and calmness on the field. The exact content of their exchange remains shrouded in mystery, supplementing an air of intrigue to the already intense battle on the cricket pitch.

    Here is the video:

    Also READ – SA vs IND [Twitter reactions]: KL Rahul’s fifty provides India a hope after Kagiso Rabada’s fifer on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test

    India’s sloppy run with the willow

    Having been invited to bat first, India grappled with the relentless onslaught of the hosts’ bowling attack in the opening Test. The batting order experienced a collective slump, with standout performances coming from Virat Kohli, who contributed a noteworthy 38 and Rahul, holding firm at an unbeaten 70 and emerging as the leading force for the visiting team.

    However, the day belonged to Kagiso Rabada, who showcased his bowling prowess by completing a five-wicket haul. Despite the challenges faced by the Indian team, they managed to post a total of 208/8 on the scoreboard by the end of the first day, with Rahul’s resilience providing a glimmer of hope in what proved to be a testing day for the Rohit Sharma-led side.

    Also READ – SA vs IND: Kagiso Rabada bowls a cracker to dismiss Shreyas Iyer during his magical 5-wicket haul in Boxing Day Test



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