Rain threat looms large over Centurion, raising doubts about whether Day 2’s play will commence on schedule today.
South Africa had India on the mat at the end of the Day 1 of the first Test being played at SuperSport Park in Centurion.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, the Proteas took immediate control. Kagiso Rabada’s outstanding five-wicket haul created immense pressure on India’s batting lineup. His deadly spells of fast bowling on a challenging pitch with unpredictable bounce dismantled the ‘Men in Blue,’ limiting them to 208 for 8 in 59 overs on a day affected by rain.
KL Rahul showcased exceptional composure in testing conditions, standing out as the lone batsman to score a fifty. He remained unbeaten at 70 off 105 deliveries, playing a crucial role in guiding India past the 200-run mark. This was significant given the struggle faced by the rest of India’s batting order against Rabada’s fierce bowling.
Rahul’s elegant cover drive for six off left-arm pacer Marco Jansen and the boundary to complete his fifty with a six were standout moments in his impressive innings.
With only two wickets remaining, India will look to extend their total to at least 250 in the first innings.
Day 2 of the Test is set to begin at 1:30 PM IST. However, the threat of rain hangs over Centurion, raising doubts about whether play will commence as per schedule today.
-By Aditya Ahuja