How Did Kuldeep Lead India to Restrict South Africa to 247/6?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kuldeep Yadav led with impressive bowling.
- India restricted South Africa to 247/6 by the end of Day One.
- Ravindra Jadeja contributed with a key wicket.
- The partnership between Bavuma and Stubbs was notable.
- The conditions favored disciplined bowling from India.
Guwahati, Nov 22 (NationPress) Kuldeep Yadav showcased his bowling prowess with impressive figures of 3-48, helping India to limit South Africa to 247/6 in 81.5 overs before bad light curtailed the first day's play in the second and final Test match at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
India made significant strides late in the day, dismissing Tony de Zorzi, capping off a well-disciplined bowling effort that saw South Africa's batsmen, despite getting starts, unable to convert any innings into a half-century. Winning the toss on a favorable batting pitch, South Africa couldn't fully capitalize, leaving India in a favorable position.
After lunch, India's persistence paid off, as Ravindra Jadeja sent Temba Bavuma back to the pavilion for 41 runs from 92 balls, trying to loft a shot over extra cover but ended up chipping it to mid-off. This dismissal ended a solid 84-run partnership with Tristan Stubbs.
A potential breakthrough could have occurred earlier when Bavuma attempted a risky single right after the lunch break. However, substitute fielder Devdutt Padikkal failed to gather the ball cleanly at square leg, allowing Stubbs to survive. Kuldeep later removed Stubbs for 49 when the batter attempted to defend, only for the ball to bounce more than expected, resulting in a sharp catch by KL Rahul at first slip.
South Africa’s lack of experience in Indian conditions was evident when Kuldeep tricked Wiaan Mulder into attempting a big shot on a well-pitched delivery that dipped, leading to a simple catch at mid-off. For a brief period, India’s disciplined bowling was challenged by de Zorzi and Senuran Muthusamy, who hit seven boundaries between them.
However, Mohammed Siraj struck with the very first ball of his spell after the second new ball to dismiss de Zorzi, with a spectacular catch from captain Rishabh Pant diving to his left to secure the take. This dismissal provided a timely boost for India as they wrapped up Day One on a positive note.
Brief scores:
South Africa 247/6 in 81.5 overs (Tristan Stubbs 49, Temba Bavuma 41; Kuldeep Yadav 3-48, Ravindra Jadeja 1-30) against India