Following a resounding defeat in the initial Test at Centurion, where India succumbed by an innings and 32 runs, the team is poised for a comeback as they face South Africa in the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, commencing on January 3. The Rohit Sharma-led squad, determined to overturn their fortunes, arrived in Cape Town on January 1 and promptly commenced their practice sessions.
Star batsman Virat Kohli, who emerged as India’s leading run-scorer in the first encounter with 114 runs across two innings, exhibited a rigorous training regimen during the prelude to the second Test.
The 35-year-old, known for his aggressive approach, showcased his prowess in the nets by confidently stepping down the track to dispatch Ravichandran Ashwin for a towering six, a moment that has since gone viral on social media, heightening anticipation among fans for Kohli’s performance in the upcoming game.
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Despite a promising 38-run contribution in the first innings at Centurion, Kohli fell victim to a sublime delivery by Kagiso Rabada. In the second innings, he valiantly fought a lone battle, accumulating 76 runs with 12 fours and a six, as India faced a daunting defeat with a meager total of 131.
Virat Kohli smashing sixes in the practice session. [Kushan Sarkar/PTI] pic.twitter.com/AQZOa6JgKj
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 1, 2024
Kohli, boasting an impressive record in South Africa, with 833 runs in 16 innings at an average of 52.06, including two centuries and four half-centuries, shoulders the responsibility of spearheading India’s batting lineup in the crucial second Test.
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The former captain is anticipated to set the tone for India’s resurgence in the series and kickstart 2024 on a triumphant note. India’s historical struggle in South Africa, with no Test series victories in nine attempts and only one draw in 2011 under MS Dhoni’s leadership, adds significance to the impending game.
With World Test Championship points at stake, the second Test becomes a pivotal juncture for the Rohit Sharma-led side as they seek redemption and aim to break the longstanding jinx in South African conditions.
