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Dean Elgar’s Heroics Lead South Africa to Victory, Dashing India’s Series Hopes

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Web Desk

3 years ago

CENTURION: India’s dream of securing their first-ever Test series win in South Africa was shattered within three days as they suffered an innings and 32 runs defeat at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Thursday.

Despite a balanced start to the day, India slumped to 131 all-out in their second inning after conceding a 163-run first-inning lead. Dean Elgar’s remarkable innings of 185 and Marco Jansen’s unbeaten 84 turned the tide in favor of South Africa.

The duo shared a crucial 111-run sixth-wicket partnership, propelling South Africa from an overnight 256 for five to a commanding total of 408 all-out. Virat Kohli fought with an aggressive 76, but the rest of the Indian batting lineup collapsed against South Africa’s fast bowlers on a lively pitch.

Kagiso Rabada set the tone, taking two crucial wickets, including dismissing Rohit Sharma for a duck. Rabada, who had impressive figures of five for 59 in the first inning, ended the match with a brilliant diving catch at long-on to dismiss Kohli.

Left-arm fast bowler Nandre Burger, in his debut Test, completed an outstanding performance, taking four for 33, and securing match figures of seven for 83.

Dean Elgar, in his final Test on his home ground, was named the Man of the Match. Elgar announced his retirement from international cricket after the second Test.

“It was pretty special for me,” said Elgar. “It (the pitch) was pretty juicy. You’ve got to keep it nice and simple when batting in tests. Focus on the ball, play straight, and play late.”

India’s hopes now rest on the second Test in Cape Town, but a series win is no longer possible, with the best outcome being a draw. The defeat highlights the challenging conditions faced by India’s batting lineup against the formidable South African bowling attack on a lively pitch.

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