Asked to bowl first, India decimated the Proteas, dismissing them for a mere 55, the lowest total against India in Test history. Mohammed Siraj starred with a remarkable 6/15, supported by Jasprit Bumrah and Mukesh Kumar.
As South Africa struggled, Keshav Maharaj arrived at the crease to the tune of ‘Ram Siya Ram,’ evoking a heartwarming response from Kohli. The Indian maestro, standing in the slips, greeted Maharaj with folded hands and bow and arrow gestures, capturing a delightful moment that resonated on social media.
The batting collapse began early for South Africa, losing Aiden Markram in the fourth over. Siraj’s impressive spell included the dismissal of both openers.
The poignant moment between Kohli and Maharaj echoed a similar interaction during the ODI series when the song ‘Ram Siya Ram’ played as Maharaj came to bat. KL Rahul had shared a smile with Maharaj, acknowledging the recurring soundtrack.
Maharaj’s stay was short-lived as he fell for three, marking Mukesh Kumar’s first Test wicket on South African soil. Bumrah and Mukesh then wrapped up the Proteas’ innings, ending at a paltry 55.
The drama, however, continued as India took charge in their innings, reaching 153 for 4, with Kohli and Rahul at the crease. Suddenly, a collapse ensued, and India lost their last six wickets in 11 balls without adding a single run. Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada wreaked havoc, creating a world record for most wickets at the same score in any format in international cricket.
The topsy-turvy turn of events continued and South Africa faced another setback in their second innings, losing three wickets to reach 62. The match, poised on a knife’s edge, promises more excitement as it unfolds at Newlands in Cape Town.
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