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The second day of the Boxing Day Test between South Africa and India at Centurion witnessed a thrilling display of cricketing prowess and resilience. The star of the day was India’s wicketkeeper-batter, KL Rahul, who not only hammered a brilliant century but also received a heartwarming reaction from Indian batting stalwart Virat Kohli.
KL Rahul’s heroics
Resuming the innings on 70 with India struggling at 208/8, Rahul showcased determination and skill as he notched up his eighth Test century. His innings not only propelled India to a competitive total of 245 but also showcased his ability to anchor the innings and form crucial partnerships with the lower-order batters, including Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj.
Kohli’s overjoyed reaction to Rahul’s century
As Rahul raised his bat to celebrate his century, the camera captured a heartening moment with the Karnataka-born cricketer’s friend and teammate Kohli standing up on his feet and applauding the spectacular achievement with a beaming smile.
It was a genuine display of joy and pride from Kohli, emphasizing the camaraderie and team spirit within the Indian squad. He even gave a pat to Rahul after he was on his way back to the dressing room after departing on 101.
Also WATCH: KL Rahul replies to Marco Jansen’s fierce sledging with a calm smile – SA vs IND, 1st Test
Kohli’s heartwarming gesture goes viral
The image of Kohli’s enthusiastic reaction to Rahul’s century quickly went viral on the internet, capturing the attention and admiration of cricket fans worldwide.
Centurion at Centurion once again! 🫡#KLRahul, TAKE A BOW!#TeamIndia's new keeper-batter rises to the occasion & brings up a memorable ton under tough circumstances.
His success mantra – Always #Believe!
Tune in to #SAvIND 1st Test
LIVE NOW | Star Sports Network pic.twitter.com/tYoDZNNJsV— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 27, 2023
Jasprit Bumrah’s crucial breakthrough
In the bowling department, despite the early wicket of Aiden Markram, India faced initial challenges as South African batters Dean Elgar and Tony de Zorzi built a solid 93-run partnership. However, the momentum shifted when Jasprit Bumrah intervened, removing Tony and injecting energy back into the Indian camp. Bumrah didn’t stop here, as he soon also removed newly arrived batter Keegan Petersen for just two runs.
