KL Rahul was the star performer for India on the opening day of the first Test against South Africa at Centurion. He scored a magnificent 70 off 105 balls, while the rest of the Indian batsmen struggled against Kagiso Rabada, who claimed four wickets. Rahul also displayed his cool and composed character when he faced an angry sledge from debutant Marco Jansen, who was annoyed after being hit for three boundaries in an over.
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The incident occurred in the 81st over of India’s innings, when Jansen bowled a short delivery to Rahul, who pulled it for a four. Jansen then shouted something at Rahul from his end, which was not picked up by the stump microphone. Rahul, however, did not react and simply smiled back at the young fast bowler. He then proceeded to drive the next ball for another four, and flick the last ball for a third boundary in the over.
Rahul’s classy response won him admiration from fans and experts on social media, who praised his calmness and temperament. Some also compared him to former India skipper MS Dhoni, who was famous for his cool and collected demeanor on the field. Rahul’s knock helped India reach 208 for 8 in their first innings, before rain stopped play on the first day.
The match was also marked by some brilliant bowling performances from both sides. Rabada was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa, taking four wickets in the innings. He was well supported by Jansen, who took two wickets on his debut. Nandre Burger also chipped in with two wickets. For India, Mohammed Siraj was the other notable contributor with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 14 and adding 28 runs with Rahul for the ninth wicket.
The second day of the Test is likely to be affected by rain as well, with the forecast predicting showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. India will be hoping to extend their lead and put pressure on South Africa, while the hosts will be looking to wrap up the innings quickly and get a good start with the bat. The second Test of the three-match series will start on January 3, 2024 at Johannesburg. India will be hoping to continue their winning momentum and clinch their first-ever Test series win in South Africa. South Africa will be looking to bounce back and level the series. The third and final Test will be played at Cape Town from January 11, 2024.
