27th December,2023, Mumbai: In a downpour impacted start to the primary Test among India and South Africa at Centurion, play was stopped as terrible light and downpour mediated with India at 208/8 against South Africa. The day exhibited a blend of heavenly exhibitions and botched open doors, leaving the match finely ready.
Rabada’s Predominance
South African quick bowler Rabada captured everyone’s attention by guaranteeing a five-wicket pull, wrapping up with figures of 5 for 44. This undeniable Rabada’s fourteenth five-wicket pull in Test cricket, underlining his ability with the ball.
KL Rahul’s Tough Innings
Notwithstanding the batting battles for India, KL Rahul stood tall with an unbeaten thump of 70 runs. His battling innings kept Indian expectations alive, suggestive of his hundred years on similar ground two seasons back.
Early Battles for India
India confronted early mishaps as Rabada, alongside debutant Nandre Burger, diminished them to 24 for three. Be that as it may, botched open doors by the South African defenders permitted Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer to construct a significant organization of 68 runs for the fourth wicket.
Botched Opportunities for South Africa
South Africa botched opportunities to place India in more profound difficulty, dropping gets from Kohli and Iyer in the beginning phases of their association. These breaches, however, didn’t dissuade Rabada, who excused both set batsmen and Ravichandran Ashwin in a critical three-wicket spell post-lunch.
Rahul’s Stand and Thakur’s Fight
KL Rahul, alongside Shardul Thakur, showed versatility with an organization of 43 runs for the seventh wicket. Thakur, in any case, confronted two wounds in the wake of being hit on the protective cap and his right arm. His excusal, following a free drive, added to India’s inconveniences.
Captaincy Difficulties for Senior member Elgar
With Temba Bavuma passing on the field because of a stressed hamstring, Senior member Elgar assumed responsibility as substitute chief. The South African group faces vulnerabilities with Bavuma’s physical issue, as day to day clinical assessments will decide his cooperation in the continuous match.
As play was stopped rashly, the coordinate remains in a precarious situation with India at 208/8. KL Rahul’s versatility and Rabada’s splendor have made way for a charming continuation of the primary Test in Centurion.
By- Sapna Meena