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Xtra Time Web Desk: Mohammed Siraj bowled one of the best opening spells by an Indian pacer overseas on Day 1 of the second test match against South Africa in Cape Town on Wednesday. Siraj wreaked havoc in the first session as he ran through the Proteas top order. Siraj’s opening spell read 9-3-16-5 as South Africa was bowled out for 55 runs in just 23.2 overs before lunch on Day 1.

Siraj got good support from Jasprit Bumrah (25/2) and Mukesh Kumar (0/2) who picked two wickets each. Proteas wicketkeeper batter Kyle Verreynne was the highest scorer in the innings with 15 while David Bedingham managed to score 12 runs. Extra was the third-highest scorer with five as South Africa could not stand still against the Indian bowling attack.

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Siraj, in particular, showcased impeccable line and length right from the first ball, wreaking havoc with his nine-over spell with the new ball. He dismissed key batsmen, including opener Aiden Markram, who edged one to Yashasvi Jaiswal in the slips. Dean Elgar, in his penultimate Test innings, played onto the stumps. Siraj continued his dominance, sending back Tony de Zorzi, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne, and Marco Jansen in quick succession, all falling victim to edges behind the wickets.

This marked Siraj's third five-wicket haul in his 23rd Test, with outstanding figures of 6/15, currently his best in the format.

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