Virat Kohli, the Indian captain, scored an incredible 76 on Thursday while South African bowlers smashed thunderbolts across a green wicket. He added yet another record to resume. Kohli’s brilliant knock was an immense setback for his team, yet he still managed to score 76 runs.
He accomplished this feat six times prior: 2012 (2286 runs), 2014 (2186 runs), 2016 (2195 runs), 2017 (2818 runs), 2018, (2735 runs) and now (2555).
Sachin Tendelkar of India scored 2048 runs during 2023 – second only to Shubman Gil with 2155 total runs scored in that calendar year.
Kohli’s contribution in India’s loss by one innings and 32 runs was critical.
India’s debut Test against South Africa was marked by both batters and bowlers failing to perform adequately. Even without Lungu Bavuma or Temba Bavauma, who were injured in play for most of that match, South Africa still proved to be a formidable opponent, thanks to Dean Elgar, who scored 408 before India were dismissed for 245. KL Rahul’s innings of 101 in the first innings would have made India’s margin much bigger. Thanks to his efforts, India managed to score 245. South Africa had plenty of chances to get 408.8 against India.
In their second innings, India’s top order was wiped out by Kagiso Rabada, and they had little left to score. India’s second test starting on January 3rd will be their chance to mount a comeback. They must become more aggressive and step up their game in order to overcome South Africa’s home advantage.
India is currently alone in the fight against South Africa, after South Africa gained an 182-run lead in their first innings on Day Three at SuperSport Park. They lost eight wickets.
