SA vs IND: 2nd Test, Day 2 – Shardul Thakur keeps India’s dream alive
The ongoing second Test match between South Africa and India is perfectly hanging in balance at stumps on Day 2. India were 85/2 at the end of the day’s play with veterans Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane being the two batters in the middle. Having already earned a 58-run lead, the visitors would be eyeing to post a stiff target on the board to knock South Africa out of the contest.
For the unversed, South Africa resumed at their overnight score of 35/1. Skipper Dean Elgar and Keegan Petersen showcased remarkable resilience in the first hour and added 74 runs for the second wicket. At 88/1, the hosts looked perfectly in command. However, Shardul Thakur’s stellar spell changed the course of the game entirely. His seven-fer meant South Africa were folded for 229, managing a 27-run lead.
Meanwhile, let’s look at the talking points of Day 2:
Keegan Petersen and Temba Bavuma’s half-centuries
Two half-centuries were recorded from the South African team but of contrasting nature. While Petersen followed the traditional approach and fought hard for his 62, Bavuma was pretty aggressive as he didn’t miss out on any opportunity to score runs. He scored 51 off just 60 deliveries to bring his side out of trouble. Interestingly, both star batters fell prey to Shardul Thakur.
Shardul Thakur’s seven-fer
Continuing his happy knack of taking wickets, Shardul Thakur delivered yet another stellar spell. He breathed fire with the red cherry and made Proteas batters dance to his tunes. It must be noted that Thakur didn’t get to operate with the new ball. This makes his seven-fer even more special. He returned with the magical figures of 7/61 which helped India to restrict South Africa’s lead to only 27.
Cheteshwar Pujara comes out with aggressive intent
Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has been short of runs lately and many have questioned his place in the playing XI. Many even believe this Johannesburg Test could be Pujara’s last in national colours. However, the 33-year-old looks pretty determined to hold on to his spot. Contrary to his nature, Pujara batted with aggressive intent at the fag end of Day 2 and played some delightful shots. He remained unbeaten at 35 off 42 deliveries at stumps. Needless to mention, the talismanic batter would like to post a substantial score.
