India suffered a tough defeat in the first Test of the two-match series against South Africa, losing by an innings and 32 runs at Centurion’s SuperSport Park. This defeat secured an unassailable 1-0 lead for South Africa in the series, crushing India’s hopes of a Test series victory in South Africa after 31 years.
Despite posting 245 runs in their first innings, Indian batsmen faltered, managing only 131 runs in the second innings. South Africa’s commanding total of 408 in their first innings proved too challenging for India.
India has a history of struggling in bilateral Test series in South Africa, with eight attempts resulting in seven losses and one draw.
The only chance for redemption now lies in a 1-1 draw if India can level the series in Cape Town. Looking ahead to the second Test at Cape Town’s Newlands stadium starting on January 3, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan suggests changes for the Indian squad.
Pathan recommends bringing in star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in place of Ravichandran Ashwin. Ashwin, who bowled 19 overs in the first Test, conceded 41 runs and took just one wicket.
“If you’re Rohit Sharma and you want to go with the same bowling attack, that’s also fine. But if you’re thinking of making a change, Mukesh Kumar could come in for Prasidh Krishna. But if you feel Prasidh is confident in the nets, then he should be backed for the second Test,” Pathan added.
The second and final Test at Cape Town is crucial for India to salvage a draw in the series.
