Xtra Time Web Desk: In a stunning turnaround, the India Cricket Team led by Rohit Sharma bounced back emphatically to level the two test match series 1-1 at the Newlands Cricket Stadium on Thursday. The visitors defeated Proteas by 7 wickets before Tea on Day 2. It was a great show of character by Rohit and his boys after a demoralizing defeat in the Boxing Day Test.
The New Year Test also witnessed India’s resounding victory, achieved in the shortest Test match ever played. Mohammed Siraj showcased his prowess by decimating the Proteas batters in the first innings, claiming a remarkable six-wicket haul, and limiting them to a paltry 55 runs. In the second innings it was Jasprit Bumrah who was the wrecker in chief with 6/61.
India’s first innings too experienced a dramatic collapse, losing last 6 wickets in just 11 balls to be bowled out for 153 runs. Proteas’ Lungi Ngidi triggered the downfall. In the second innings Aiden Markram emerged as the lone warrior for the Proteas, crafting a sensational century (106 off 103 balls) and setting a modest target of 79 runs for India.
Jasprit Bumrah took center stage in the second innings, dismantling the Proteas with a six-fer, while Mukesh Kumar chipped in with crucial wickets. The Proteas managed to post 176 runs, leading to an early lunch.
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In their pursuit of victory, Indian openers Rohit Sharma (16 off 22) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (28 off 23) displayed positive intent, racing away to 44 runs in 5.4 overs. Although Shubman Gill (10) and Virat Kohli (12) departed early, Shreyas Iyer secured the win with a boundary. India, on their seventh attempt, breached the fortress of Newlands, triumphing over South Africa to level the series at 1-1.
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