Analyzing Rabada’s Impact on India vs South Africa 1st Test -Day 1 ,South Africa has kicked off the Boxing Day Test against India on a positive note. They won the toss and chose to put India in to bat first. Unfortunately, India lost their top three wickets in the opening 11 overs. Although catches were dropped for both Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli, the duo managed to stabilize the innings, taking India to Lunch with a score of 91/3. The partnership between Kohli and Iyer reached 67 off 89 balls. Despite rain predictions, the sun is shining at SuperSport Park.
The toss, originally scheduled for 1 pm IST, was delayed due to a wet outfield. After an inspection at 1:30 pm IST, the toss occurred at 1:45 pm IST, with play beginning at 2 pm. Prasidh Krishna made his debut, receiving the cap.
Winning in South Africa is challenging, and it becomes even tougher for India. Historically, Indian batters struggle here, and their spinners find it hard to make an impact. India has never won a Test series in South Africa, with only four victories in 23 Tests since 1996. Despite these challenges, India ranks as the third-most successful team in South Africa, trailing behind Australia and England. However, India has consistently given South Africa tough competition in the past decade.
This time around, Rohit Sharma leads the team for the first time. Notably, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are not in the squad, Mohammed Shami is out due to injury, and Rishabh Pant is also unavailable. However, India boasts the presence of Virat Kohli, with an impressive average of over 50 in South Africa. Three promising young batters – Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer – are making their Test debut in South Africa. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj add strength to the bowling attack.
While South Africa is not the dominant force it once was, challenges exist with captain Temba Bavuma under pressure, Dean Elgar playing his farewell series, and concerns over the fitness of Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi. Indian fans are hopeful that this presents a golden opportunity for India to conquer their toughest summit once again.
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