The Boxing Day Test in Centurion has pivoted, with South Africa claiming the upper hand after Day 2. India’s hopes were first dashed by a meager 245-run total, followed by Dean Elgar’s masterful century that propelled the Proteas to a slender 11-run lead. While rain disruptions have marred the match, it’s the Indian bowling’s lackluster performance that has truly raised eyebrows.
Former coach Ravi Shastri pinpointed a crucial tactical miss that he believes cost India dearly. Introducing Shardul Thakur and Prasidh Krishna after lunch, instead of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, proved detrimental. Shastri argues that the latter duo, India’s spearheads, should have spearheaded the attack, especially after a leaky session that handed South Africa the initiative.
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“Tactically, it was a big mistake,” Ravi Shastri asserted during his commentary stint on Star Sports. “Bumrah and Siraj should have started after lunch. India definitely missed a trick there.”
South African bowling legend Vernon Philander echoes Shastri’s view, suggesting a possible attempt to save Bumrah’s energy backfired. “That opening hour after lunch gave South Africa crucial momentum,” Philander lamented. “Giving away 42 runs was a missed opportunity for India.”
India’s bowlers now face an uphill battle. Bumrah and Siraj will need to rediscover their magic, while the supporting cast must tighten their act. The Proteas, buoyed by Elgar’s ton and the tactical slip-up, will aim to capitalize on their advantage and potentially seal the first Test in their favor.
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With three days remaining, the Centurion Test promises even more twists and turns. Can India rectify their strategic errors and claw back the lead? Or will South Africa, riding the Elgar wave, solidify their dominance and take a crucial one-up lead in the series? The coming days will provide the answers, leaving cricket fans on the edge of their seats
