High-octane action unfolded on the second day of the IND vs SA 1st Test as veteran Dean Elgar showcased his prowess with an unbeaten century, guiding South Africa to a commendable position. Elgar’s emotional knock of 140 not out, which could be one of his last in international cricket as he retires after this series, propelled the hosts to 256-5 at stumps. This puts South Africa in an advantageous position with an 11-run lead and five wickets in hand over India.
Elgar’s innings, characterized by unusually flamboyant front foot strokes, was not only chanceless but also marked his 14th Test century, a milestone achieved at his home ground, Centurion. He formed crucial partnerships, first contributing to a 93-run stand with Tony de Zorzi for the second wicket and then a resilient 131-run partnership with debutant David Bedingham for the fourth wicket. Bedingham, in his maiden Test appearance, displayed confidence with a solid half-century, scoring 56 before being dismissed by Mohammed Siraj.
Siraj, with figures of 2-63, and Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed two wickets, played pivotal roles in India’s bowling attack. Bumrah squared up De Zorzi and dismissed Keegan Petersen, while Siraj took the first wicket of the innings, dismissing Aiden Markram early on.
Earlier in the day, KL Rahul’s magnificent century had steered India to a respectable total of 245 in their first innings. Rahul, starting the day at 70 not out, reached his eighth Test ton with flair, adding valuable runs before being bowled out for 101 off 137 balls. Nandre Burger, making his debut, made an impact with figures of 3-50, while Kagiso Rabada led the home bowlers with 5-59. As play concluded under fading light, the stage is set for an intriguing third day of the Test match.