Centurion, First Published Dec 26, 2021, 5:17 PM IST
Centurion: Many believed that Ajinkya Rahane would not be included in the Team India Playing XI for the first Test against South Africa (South Africa vs India 1st Test). They wanted to replace the formless Ajinkya Rahane with Shreyas Iyer or Hanuma Vihari. However, the Indian team management decided to give Rahane another chance due to his experience. The forerunners have expressed surprise at this Indian decision.
Aakash Chopra said
‘Shreyas Iyer could not find a place in the playing XI. The decision was made to play Ajinkya Rahane. This seems to be Rahane’s last chance. But let the star’s choice be right. The Centurion Test will be a big test for Rahane, “said Akash Chopra in an interview with Star Sports.
Agarkar backs Chopra
Ajit Agarkar, another leading figure in the discussion, agreed with Chopra. ‘Rahane was ruled out of the Mumbai Tests due to injury. Therefore, it can be said that Rahane has returned to the playing XI as an experienced player. He has previously excelled on foreign pitches. But Aakash agrees with Chopra. I will choose Vihari or Shreyas instead of Rahane for the playing XI, ”Agarkar said.
Lots of four bowlers: Chopra
Team India is playing with five bowlers in Centurion. The personal opinion is that four bowlers are plenty. The pitch supports the pacers but the four bowlers are plenty as the batting of the opponents is not so good. Aakash Chopra added that Ravichandran Ashwin should have played with three pacers and a spinner.
Ajinkya Rahane’s experience in the Indian playing XI for the first Test against South Africa was beneficial. Rahane’s former superiority on foreign pitches has come to the rescue.
Team India: KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammad Shami, Jaspreet Bumra, Mohammad Siraj.
Great start, double strike
Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul gave India a promising start with skipper Virat Kohli winning the toss and choosing to bat. At lunch on the first day, the duo crossed the 100 mark with a safe score of 83/0. Mayank and Cheteshwar Pujara returned for the Golden Duck with 60 off 123 balls. Where is the wicket of both? India are 118-2 at the end of 41 overs. Along with KL Rahul (47 *), Virat Kohli (1 *) is at the crease.
South Africa vs India: Centurion Test; Virat Kohli hits record before reaching the crease!
Last Updated Dec 26, 2021, 5:21 PM IST
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