A Day of Dramatic Swings and Unwanted Records at Newlands
Newlands witnessed a sensational opening act in the second test, with both India and South Africa experiencing highs and lows like never before. The day ended with South Africa clinging on at 62/3, chasing a 36-run lead after 23 wickets tumbled and records were rewritten.
Mohammed Siraj stole the show with a career-best 6-15, skittling South Africa out for a measly 55. Elgar, who retired before the series, even got dismissed twice! India then raced to 153/4, only to implode spectacularly, losing six wickets for no runs – a never-before-seen feat in test cricket. Ducks rained down, with six Indian batsmen equaling the record for most ducks in an innings.
The first two innings lasted a mere 349 balls, the second-shortest in test history. Only Australia v England in 1902 saw a faster conclusion in terms of deliveries.
South Africa’s second innings started nervously, with Mukesh Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah claiming vital wickets. Aiden Markram (36*) and David Bedingham (7*) will need to bat big on Day 2 to give India a challenging target.
India’s batting collapse was dramatic, triggered by Lungi Ngidi’s three wickets in an over. Kagiso Rabada and Nandre Burger also chipped in with wickets, leaving India reeling at 153.
The Proteas face a daunting task on Day 2, trailing by 36 runs with the burden of Aiden Markram’s innings on their shoulders. Navigating the next two days, including nearly 20 overs on Day 3, is their only hope for a comeback. But the challenge goes beyond mere survival.
To truly steal the momentum, they need to set India a massive chase of at least 200 on a pitch already favoring bowlers. This uphill battle seems a tall order, especially considering the treacherous nature of Newlands surface. With nerves on edge and time running out, Day 2 could very well see the curtains drawn on this Test match.
This rollercoaster day may have been record-breaking, but neither side will cherish the unwanted milestones. South Africa’s batting woes and India’s dramatic collapse set the stage for an intriguing Day 2, with the match delicately poised.
25 wickets fell between AUS vs ENG test match in 1902 at Melbourne and 23 wickets were taken by SA vs IND in 2024 at Cape Town and 22 wickets were taken by ENG vs AUS in 1890 at The Oval and 22 wickets were taken by AUS vs WI in 1951 at Adelaide and 21 wickets were taken by SA vs ENG in 1896 at Gqeberha.
