After dismissing India for 245, South Africa take charge on Day 3, with Elgar anchoring the innings. Kohli and Gill fight back, but the home team remain firmly in control

South Africa v India Boxing Day test: It seems South Africa are preparing to give Dean Elgar a much-coveted farewell, allowing the left-hander to look back and say, “That’s how I wanted to end my Test career: with so much elation and pride.”

And what better way to start than with the dominant bowling and batting performances by the South Africans, which have put them in a strong position against India in the Boxing Day Test at SuperSport Park Centurion?

Dean Elgar’s score of 185 was his 14th career century, followed by a brilliant batting performance by debutant David Bedingham, who made a half-century on his debut. Then, in the lower order, Marco Jansen played a superb innings, recording his highest ever personal best in Test cricket.

Just recently, during the home white-ball series against Australia, Jansen expressed increased confidence in his batting, and it has certainly paid off handsomely.

Indian bowlers struggled mightily, but once again, there was one standout performer who consistently delivers for India across formats: Jasprit Bumrah. He emerged as the best bowler despite taking just 4 wickets, primarily due to his excellent economy rate of under 4 runs per over.

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In stark contrast, two other Indian bowlers conceded over 200 runs while leaking runs at over 5 runs per over.

While the pitch seemed to favor batting, India’s bowling lacked sting for most of the innings. Many deliveries were too full and pitched on the pads, which Dean Elgar, who looked composed throughout his innings, happily feasted on.

India will likely rue their inconsistent bowling performance in this Test match. Their plans seemed ill-suited to the conditions, and South Africa readily capitalized on the home advantage and the quick outfield to post a substantial total.

South Africa hold a commanding lead with both Indian openers back in the pavilion. India still trail by 140 runs, and chasing it down, or even making a competitive match of it, will require a monumental effort. Despite missing a batsman, the Proteas hold all the cards at this stage.

Kagiso Rabada looks in fiery mood, so it won’t be easy at all. But India will need to find some confidence and intent, which will be crucial. For now, the responsibility falls onto the shoulders of Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill.

If they can remain positive and see through the challenging spells from the South African pace bowlers on a juicy surface, then India can stand a good chance.