South Africa may have knocked out India for 223 in their opening innings, but speedster ace Kagiso Rabada said on Tuesday his hitters will have to dig deep to win the third litmus test for the series. India secured the important wicket from South African skipper Dean Elgar (3) towards the end of the game as the hosts reached 17 for one against strains on opening day with Aiden Markram (8) and the watchman night Keshav Maharaj (6) in the middle. “The game is in balance. Obviously we would have liked to win the draw. But we did well to narrow them down for 223 but we’re going to have to hit well,” Rabada said in the media interaction after the match of the day.
“I think our biggest strength is that we’re just relentless and resilient and that forced us to learn quickly. You’re always going to learn when you play against opponents. So I think that is very useful for us going forward. “
Speaking of the conditions, he said: “There’s quite a bit of it in that wicket yet. We have no control over the conditions. It feels like a perfect test wicket where hitters have to grind. I think it’s wrong. change a lot tomorrow. ” Playing in his 50th test, Rabada was exceptional with numbers of 4/73 which included the prized scalp of Indian captain Virat Kohli (79).
“I wouldn’t say a perfect day, it’s very rare that you have a perfect day. I had a good day and things turned out the way I want them to.
“Usually what we try to do is be as consistent as possible in every game. I just tried to do the same things, nothing changes.
“Today things turned out the way I want them to, I think I feel good about the way I bowling. I felt good there,” he said.
Rabada had an exciting battle with the Indian skipper, who faced 55 of his deliveries and scored 24 races, including three limits, before coming out for the point guard.
Battle against Kohli
Rabada said the plan was to either play straight or walk away from the Indian captain.
“The plan was to throw a good line and a good length.
It was pretty obvious trying to walk away as he got out that way. He was very patient when he left the ball. He beat extremely well, kudos to him. “
Jansen has the X factor
Promoted
Rabada received support from rookie point guard Marco Jansen, who scored 3/55 in his third Test appearance.
“He’s got a burning desire to play here. He’s got the X factor. He’s got a tough character, that’s the first thing you look for in a cricketer. The natural talent is there and he has the ability to win some wins. matches. It’s an exciting prospect for South Africa, “Rabada said of Jansen.
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