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In the ongoing first Test of India’s tour to South Africa at Supersport Park in Centurion, the Rohit Sharma-led side are facing a tough battle as their batting order crumbled under pressure. The standout moment unfolded when Kagiso Rabada delivered a crucial blow by dismissing stalwart Virat Kohli.
Rabada’s skilful execution in sending Virat back to the pavilion marked a pivotal moment in the game, further intensifying the competition between the two cricketing powerhouses.
Rabada’s classic swinging delivery to Kohli
The decisive scene transpired on the final delivery of the 31st over, as Rabada executed a full-length delivery aimed at the middle stump. Adopting a cautious approach, Virat carefully stepped forward to meet the ball. However, the red leather subtly deviated, making contact with the outside edge of the right-handed batter’s willow.
Behind the stumps, Kyle Verreynne exhibited finesse as he seamlessly completed a regulation catch. Despite Virat’s apparent comfort at the crease, the unforeseen deviation of the ball left him with no recourse but to reluctantly depart at a score of 38.
Here is the video:
Virat Kohli departs for 38(64) 😭💔
Rabada got the big fish 😔#ViratKohli𓃵 #Kohli #Virat pic.twitter.com/dFGVxD4ED7— Ⱥηiꌗh 🚩 (@RajputAnishh) December 26, 2023
Also READ: SA vs IND [Twitter reactions] – KL Rahul’s fifty provides India a hope after Kagiso Rabada’s fifer on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test
India’s horrible batting performance
Earlier in the day, South Africa debutant Nandre Burger swiftly left an indelible mark on the game by claiming two wickets in his opening 13 balls. The pacer created early disruptions by dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, who were caught behind the stumps. The morning session witnessed a resilient recovery from India, with Virat and Shreyas Iyer orchestrating a 67-run partnership in just 89 deliveries.
However, after lunch, Rabada struck decisively, dismissing both Iyer (31) and Virat (38) in quick succession, tilting the balance in favour of South Africa. The Indian innings faced another setback as Ravichandran Ashwin departed got out on just eight runs.
