South Africa showcased their dominance over India in a thrilling first test at Centurion, clinching victory by an innings and 32 runs on Thursday.
The Proteas maintained their stronghold, and India faced a challenging collapse in their second innings.
After posting a commanding 408 in the first innings, South Africa secured a substantial 163-run lead. The home side’s bowling attack, led by debutant Nandre Burger with four wickets, Marco Jansen with three, and Kagiso Rabada with two, dismantled India for a mere 131 runs in the second innings.
Despite a valiant effort from Virat Kohli, who scored 76 runs off 82 balls, the Indian batting lineup crumbled.
Notable contributions from Shubman Gill (26) and a century in the first innings by KL Rahul were overshadowed by the devastating spells from the South African bowlers.
The Proteas’ bowlers were relentless from the first ball of India’s second innings, with missed opportunities, fiery deliveries, and crucial breakthroughs.
Aiden Markram’s dropped catch at second slip added early drama, but subsequent dismissals, including the crucial wicket of captain Rohit Sharma, set the tone for South Africa’s dominance.
In a dramatic last session, Jansen’s precision bowling saw the fall of Shreyas Iyer and two quick wickets by Burger, claiming the prized scalps of KL Rahul and Ravichandran Ashwin.
David Bedingham’s sharp fielding at gully contributed to the chaos, dismissing Shardul Thakur, while Jasprit Bumrah was run out without adding to the score.
The Proteas’ outstanding fielding was epitomized by Rabada’s spectacular diving catch to dismiss Kohli, bringing a fitting end to an enthralling contest. With this triumph, South Africa ensured a series victory, maintaining their record as the only country where India is yet to win an away series.
The day began with South Africa holding an 11-run lead at 256-6. Dean Elgar, in a commanding display, extended his score from 140 to 185 before being dismissed just before lunch. Elgar’s partnership with Marco Jansen, who reached his highest test score at 84 not out, laid the foundation for South Africa’s dominance.
