Kagiso Rabada Roars Back with Five-Wicket Haul to Put South Africa in Control on first Day at Centurion Against India 

Kagiso Rabada silenced any doubts about his form after a lengthy absence from Test cricket, tearing through the India batting lineup of India with a magnificent five-wicket haul on the opening day of the first Test in Centurion.

The 28-year-old paceman proved rust was nothing but a fleeting visitor, dismissing five Indian batsmen for just 44 runs to leave India reeling at 208-8 when rain and bad light mercifully ended the day’s play.

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It was Rabada’s first Test since South Africa’s victory over West Indies in Johannesburg in March, but his bowling lacked none of the fire and fury that defines him. “My training kept me focused,” Rabada stated. “Days like this happen in cricket, where everything clicks, and today was just my day.”

“I’m pretty happy with the way I bowled. All week, the ball has been coming up nicely so I came into the match quite confident and I’m just glad that all the focus and hard work paid off. My mind and body was feeling good coming into this test series.”

Rabada struck early, claiming three quick wickets right after lunch, effectively halting India’s momentum after a promising start. His crowning glory was dismissing Virat Kohli with a superb delivery that found the edge and flew to the wicketkeeper.

“The ball swung away late, and usually, he covers that area well,” Rabada explained about Kohli’s dismissal. “He’s a world-class player, so getting him out required being at my best, and I’m glad I managed the nick.”

Despite his dominant performance, Rabada remained grounded. “India has a strong batting lineup with plenty of experience,” he acknowledged. “So, 208-8 is a good position, especially since we sent them in to bat. Overall, I’m happy with my bowling, but there’s always room for improvement.”

With rain threatening to wash out further play, South Africa holds a strong advantage but knows the job is far from finished. Rabada’s fiery spell has set the stage for a thrilling Test match, leaving cricket fans eagerly awaiting the resumption of battle on Day 2.