Rabada aims for the top spot in the ICC Test bowlers' rankings
On Tuesday, Rabada showcased an outstanding performance, propelling South Africa into a commanding position on the first day of the IND vs SA 2nd Test. The Proteas’ fast bowler demonstrated his unstoppable prowess with the new ball, dismissing several top Indian batters. Rabada commenced his onslaught by sending Indian captain Rohit Sharma back to the pavilion, as Rohit pulled a short delivery straight to fine leg, resulting in an early exit. Despite India exhibiting signs of recovery through the partnership between Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli, Rabada struck again, exploiting the gap between Iyer’s bat and pad to break the stumps.
Maintaining his impressive form, Rabada further dashed Indian hopes with a sublime delivery outside off-stump, claiming the wicket of well-set batter Virat Kohli. Kohli attempted a push at the good-length ball, but a slight swing caused the ball to edge off Kohli’s bat and land into the South African wicketkeeper’s stumps. Ashwin became Rabada’s fourth victim, nicking another good-length delivery to second slip.
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With this four-wicket haul, Rabada aims for the top spot in the ICC Test bowlers’ rankings. However, Ashwin has the opportunity to hinder his ascent, needing to secure a significant number of wickets in the series to prevent Rabada from becoming the top-ranked Test bowler. The opening day of the Boxing Day Test saw a captivating display of cricket, albeit marred by rain, leaving South Africa with an early advantage as Kannur Lokesh Rahul fought valiantly for Team India.
South Africa, having won the toss and choosing to bowl, exploited favourable conditions to quickly reduce India to 24/3. The visitors, however, managed to recover, with Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli forming a crucial 50+ partnership that extended beyond the lunch break. Rahul exhibited patience and skill, achieving an impressive half-century, while accompanied by Mohammed Siraj. Unfortunately, heavy rainfall during the final session forced the umpires to call an early stumps. Rahul, batting at 70 off 105 balls, and Siraj, yet to open his account, will resume if weather conditions permit. With India at 208/8 in 59 overs, the remainder of the scheduled 98 overs will be crucial to compensate for the lost time and overs.
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