Team India is gearing up for a resilient comeback against the Proteas in the second and final Test after a setback in the Boxing Day Test, where the Rohit Sharma-led side faced a defeat by an inning and 32 runs at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. The disappointment continued as they were penalized two points in the World Test Championship table for a slow overrate.
Amidst the challenges, there were noteworthy moments for the Men in Blue, with KL Rahul’s century, Kohli’s determined second-innings performance, and Jasprit Bumrah’s standout contribution in the bowling lineup. Looking ahead to the second Test, there is positive news for the Indian camp as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is on track for a timely return.
Jadeja, who missed the series opener due to an upper back spasm on Day 1, has commenced training in Cape Town. During the warm-up session on Day 3, he showed no signs of discomfort, taking multiple 30-40m short strides. While R Ashwin filled in admirably, securing 1 for 41 in 19 overs in challenging spin conditions, Jadeja’s potential return adds strength to India’s batting lineup.
IND vs SA 2nd Test Predicted XI:
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Shreyas Iyer
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Avesh Khan