Hardik Pandya’s fine outing in his first Test match in South Africa continued as he replicated his batting show with the ball as well as he dismissed both the South African openers as South Africa finished day 2 of the first Test in Cape Town at 65/2.
After India were dismissed for 209 giving the hosts a lead of 77 runs, Aiden Markram and Dean Elgar put on 52 for the first wicket, taking the lead past three figures.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami and Hardik Pandya attempted to replicate the efforts of the South African pacers, starting off with probing opening spells. Both openers had nervy starts, surviving close shares before finding their feet and starting to middle the ball.
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Just when it looked like South Africa were headed for a huge second innings score, Pandya struck the first blow of the second innings. Markram was the first to depart, caught by Bhuvi at point after top edging a pull. Elgar followed his opening partner soon after, edging a wide, full ball to Saha as the hosts were suddenly in a spot of bother.
Kagiso Rabada and Hashim Amla saw off the last few overs as South Africa ended the day on 65/2, a lead of 142 which they will hope to increase on Day 3. India know that wickets is the only way to go, and should go all guns blazing in an attempt to dismiss the Proteas for a low score.
