Despite the Centurion setback, Rohit Sharma aims to become only the second Indian captain, after MS Dhoni, to avoid a Test series defeat in South Africa.
IND vs SA 2nd Test LIVE Score: India has started the game on a strong note. Mohammed Siraj is breathing fire to send Aiden Markram, Dean Elgar and Tony de Zorzi back into the dugout. Bumrah with a lethal delivery scalped Tristan Stubbs. Earlier, in a pivotal moment ahead of the series-deciding Test against India, South Africa’s captain, Dean Elgar, won the toss and elected to bat first in Cape Town.
As the teams take the field, the spotlight is on India’s decision to field four seamers, a move that underscores their aggressive intent. However, this bold choice comes at the cost of batting depth, with Jasprit Bumrah slated at No. 8. The responsibility now falls on the shoulders of the Indian batters to deliver, emphasizing the high stakes in the series decider.
In response to the challenge posed by India’s seam attack, South Africa has made three changes to their lineup. Lungi Ngidi replaces the injured Gerald Coetzee, debutant Tristan Stubbs steps in for Temba Bavuma, and Keshav Maharaj gets the nod ahead of Petersen.
India vs South Africa: Preview
The Newlands Cricket Ground awaits an intense battle, with the weather conditions and the pitch itself adding layers of complexity. The surface, marked by significant cracks, is expected to offer challenges to both batting and bowling units. The baking heat amplifies the uncertainty, drawing comparisons to the iconic WACA Ground.
As the action unfolds, eyes are on Dean Elgar, who walks out for his final Test, leading South Africa. The coin toss favored the hosts, allowing Elgar to exercise his choice.
After a disheartening defeat in the first Test, India is gearing up for redemption as they face South Africa in the second and final Test at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town on January 3. The SuperSport Park in Centurion witnessed India’s defeat by an innings and 32 runs, leaving them trailing in the series. The upcoming match in Cape Town presents an opportunity for Rohit Sharma and his men to bounce back and level the series.
South Africa, led by Dean Elgar, delivered a commanding performance in the first Test, dealing a blow to India’s aspirations of securing a Test series win in South Africa. India, ranked number 1 in Tests, had a disappointing outing with both bat and ball, being bowled out for 245 and 131 runs while South Africa posted a formidable 408 runs led by Dean Elgar’s stellar 185.
Despite the setback, Rohit Sharma aims to become only the second Indian captain, after MS Dhoni, to avoid a Test series defeat in South Africa. Historically, India has faced South Africa in eight Test series since 1992, winning seven and drawing one. The team will be eager to improve their performance and rectify the shortcomings witnessed in the first Test.
Rohit Sharma, who struggled in the first Test, scoring just 128 runs in 10 innings at an average of 12.80, will be keen to enhance his record in South Africa. With the support of a talented batting and bowling lineup, India aims to turn the tide in their favor in Cape Town.
IND vs SA 2nd Test: Team News
India has made strategic changes in response to the first Test’s outcome. Pacer Avesh Khan, who impressed against South Africa A in a tour game with a five-wicket haul, has been included in the squad for the second Test. Ravindra Jadeja, who was unfit for the first Test, may return to the starting XI, possibly replacing either Ravichandran Ashwin or Shardul Thakur.
Fast-bowler Prasidh Krishna, making his debut in Centurion, could retain his spot, while Mukesh Kumar is a potential alternative. India is deliberating on the best combination to counter South Africa in the crucial second Test.
For the hosts, Dean Elgar leads the team in his farewell Test match, stepping in for the injured regular captain Temba Bavuma. Zubayr Hamza may replace the injured Bavuma in the starting XI. Fast-bowling all-rounder Gerald Coetzee’s injury might pave the way for spin-bowling all-rounder Keshav Maharaj to join the playing XI.
The second Test in Cape Town holds immense significance for both teams, and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await an intense battle on the picturesque grounds of Newlands Cricket Ground. Will India stage a comeback, or will South Africa maintain their dominance? The answers unfold in the riveting clash ahead.