India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, struggled once again on South Africa’s turf. This time during the first Test at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on December 26. The right-handed batter’s early exit marked a disappointing start for the team. He scored only five runs from 14 balls, leaving India with their first loss at 13 runs in the fifth over.
South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada aimed a length ball squarely at Rohit. Rohit attempted a pull shot, only to be caught out by fielder Nandre Burger at fine-leg. A jubilant Rabada lifted his arms and looked skywards in celebration.
Unexpectedly, Rohit Sharma is among the top pullers in the game of cricket, yet in all three forms, he is frequently removed with his preferred stroke. In a similar manner, the 36-year-old lost his wicket once more.
Watch the wicket of Rohit Sharma below:
Rohit Sharma has now only managed 128 runs at an average of 14.3 in nine innings of Test cricket in South Africa. Nevertheless, in his eight prior games in the Rainbow Nation, he was a middle-order batter.
Yashasvi Jaiswal was caught behind by wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne by rookie Nandre Burger after 17 runs, just after Rohit was removed from the game.
South Africa win toss, elect to bowl first against India in 1st Test
On Tuesday, Temba Bavuma, South Africa’s leader, chose to bowl first against India, led by Rohit Sharma. Debut caps were given to Nandre Burger and David Bedingham of the Proteas team. This came about as Lungi Ngidi could not achieve match fitness, having missed the white-ball series from an injury.
While tossing, Bavuma uttered:
“We’ll bowl first. Wicket has been under covers, we want to use the moisture and make early inroads. Our boys have all got into reasonably fit conditions.”
Temba Bavuma
Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna entered the field for the first time representing India. Ravichandran Ashwin found his name in the team, being the only spinner, as Ravindra Jadeja had to miss his turn because of a back spasm.
As the report is being prepared, India’s scoreboard reads 23/2 after 10 overs. Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill are currently keeping the crease.