How Did Jadeja and Sundar Shine as South Africa Reaches 107/3 at Tea?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jadeja's spin bowling
- The Indian fielders showed determination and focus.
- Sundar's variations in pace kept the South African batsmen in check.
- South Africa managed to score 81 runs while losing three wickets in the session.
- The pitch conditions remained favorable for spinners.
Guwahati, Nov 25 (NationPress) Team India showcased their exceptional skills on the field by clinching three vital wickets during the initial session of Day 4 in the ongoing second Test against South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.
The pitch proved to be highly beneficial for the spinners, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar capitalizing on the conditions. Following less effective opening spells from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, the Indian side swiftly brought in their spinners, a strategic decision that paid off.
Despite a few missed run-out opportunities during the opening session, the fielders exhibited promising performances as the home team aimed to keep the visitors' score to a minimum.
With the Indian spinners consistently striking at critical moments, Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs guided South Africa to a score of 107/3 at tea. During the session, which saw 32 overs bowled, the Proteas managed to score 81 runs while losing three wickets.
At the start of Day 4, South Africa's openers Ryan Rickleton and Aiden Markram appeared composed, advancing their overnight score of 26-0 to 58/1 before the latter was dismissed.
The Proteas made gradual progress throughout the morning, with Rickleton being the primary contributor, reaching 35 before falling to Jadeja while attempting an aggressive shot.
The pitch remained in good condition during the first session, posing no significant issues. Sundar bowled an impressive early spell, skillfully adjusting his pace to maintain control over the scoring.
It wasn’t long before Jadeja struck again, removing Markram by utilizing the sharp grip and spin available.
Sundar then took down the risky Bavuma, who managed just three runs off 11 balls, thanks to a fine catch by Nitish Kumar Reddy at leg slip. Nevertheless, Zorzi and Stubbs found the gaps for consistent boundaries until the session concluded.
South Africa: 489 and 107/3 in 40 overs (Ryan Rickelton 35, Aiden Markram 29) lead India 201 all out in 83.5 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 58, Washington Sundar 48; Marco Jansen 6-48, Simon Harmer 3-64) by 395 runs.