India defeated South Africa by seven wickets in less than five sessions in Cape Town, setting a record for the quickest Test in terms of balls bowled.
The victory helped the visitors even the two-match series while they bounced back from the crushing defeat they suffered in Centurion. Additionally, they achieved the first-ever triumph at Newlands by an Asian team.
Due to the peculiarities of the game, many Indian players did not bask in glory even if they won handily. Meanwhile, a handful were instrumental in a historic victory abroad.
In light of that, let’s take a look at three Team India players who shone and two who underperformed during the second Test matchup with South Africa.
5. Star – Jasprit Bumrah
The rightful champion of the Series Player honors, Jasprit Bumrah came back to Test cricket with a standout performance against South Africa. His skill in the second Test was truly impressive. He bagged six wickets during the second innings, which led his team to a total they could pursue.
On the second morning, Bumrah was flawless; he struck the correct spots and let the Cape Town wicket do its job. In order to make sure Aiden Markram had no help at the other end, the fast bowler tore through the middle order and cleaned up the tail. He may have also had Markram if a catch had gone through.
In addition to being maybe the finest fast bowler in Indian history, Bumrah is also a strong contender to be the world’s best Test bowler.
4. Flop – Prasidh Krishna
Prasidh Krishna, a player who made his Test debut in Centurion, is nearing the conclusion of his career; as he plays more games, he will experience brighter days.
It’s safe to assume, though, that Prasidh, whose bowling technique is suited to South African conditions, didn’t exactly gloat during the series. During his periods, the gaunt pacer frequently struck distances that were either too short or too full. Nor were his lines entirely accurate.
In the Test, Prasidh bowled just eight overs; the other three Indian pacers outperformed him by a wide margin. In the second innings, Markram took a like to him, hitting two sixes and two fours in a massive over. The 27-year-old will take something away from this.
3. Star – Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj’s performance in the first Test drew some criticism. Even though he bowled rather well overall, one might argue that he did not do enough to provide assistance for Bumrah and limit runs.
But Siraj was at his very best in Cape Town. The 29-year-old was instructed to bowl and, in favorable conditions, he snatched the new ball and ran amok. As South Africa was knocked out for just 55 runs in the first innings, he finished with six wickets, establishing the tone for the Test match.
In the second essay, Siraj also secured a crucial wicket-that of centurion Markram. He was declared the Player of the Match with good reason.
2. Flop – KL Rahul
Among the most notable performers in Centurion was KL Rahul. However, like so frequently in his career, he was unable to build on a strong performance.
Sucked into his shell, Rahul took a long time to speak. Not too long later, he stole a rank loosener from the wicket-keeper, Lungi Ngidi. The No. 6 hitter has to shoulder some of the blame for what happened when he walked back for just eight runs.
India lost their final six wickets for a total of 0 runs, but Ngidi took two more wickets in the over. Rahul was fully aware that India’s batting depth was limited after Thakur was dropped. But his batting did not reflect that.
Prior to Markram’s century, Rahul also failed to make a straightforward catch that would have sent him back to the hut. He must do better, if only till Rishabh Pant returns.
1. Star – Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli’s quick exit during the second play, lowered his Test average to less than 50 in South Africa. It’s still a solid 49.50, and reflecting on his journey in the Rainbow Nation, he’s doing pretty good.
In the second Test, Virat Kohli confidently owned the field and scored the highest for India in the first round. His impressive 46-run play included six boundaries and a six. He smartly made his hits, helping the scores go up.
With enough of energy remaining, Kohli should be able to return for another trip to South Africa in 2027.
