SA vs IND: 1st Test Review – Protea bowlers wreak havoc to secure a dominant victory

India and South Africa clashed on day three of their first match at SuperSport Park in Centurion and the hosts clinched the game to take a 1-0 lead on just the third day of the match.

The South African team, starting the day at 256 for five, witnessed brilliant batting from Dean Elgar and Marco Jansen. Elgar’s outstanding innings came to an end after scoring 185, contributing significantly to the team’s total of 360. Jansen, displaying resilience with the tail, remained unbeaten at 84, guiding South Africa to a commendable total of 408.

In their second innings, India struggled against a formidable South African attack, appearing outclassed and inexperienced in the challenging conditions. With a substantial lead of 163, the game slipped away from India, and Kagiso Rabada ensured the downfall of the visitors.

Rohit Sharma’s dismissal for a duck set the tone, and nine of the Indian batters found it challenging to reach double digits, with Nandre Burger shining in the second innings. Despite Virat Kohli’s valiant efforts, where he scored 76 runs, the lack of support from the team proved detrimental. South Africa’s bowlers effectively utilized the pitch. Further, India succumbed within 35 overs, being all out for just 131 in the second innings.

South Africa secured a comprehensive victory by an innings and 32 runs. Burger took four wickets, while Jansen and Rabada claimed three and two wickets, respectively.

Top Performers of the Day

Marco Jansen (84 of 147)

Marco Jansen displayed his batting prowess, playing a brilliant knock of 84 not out. He initially provided crucial support to Elgar and later contributed runs alongside the tailenders. It significantly boosted his team’s first innings total. Jansen’s outstanding inning included 11 fours and one six. He showcased both his resilience and ability to score vital runs for the team.

Nandre Burger (4/33, 10 overs)

Nandre Burger exhibited his brilliance with impressive pace and bounce in his debut Test match. Showing no signs of lacking confidence, he ran through the Indian batting lineup, dismantling them effectively. Burger played a pivotal role, taking four crucial wickets in the second innings of India, including dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul.

What’s next

These two sides are set to clash in the second test of the series, commencing on January 3 at Newlands, Cape Town.