Harbhajan Singh expressed the opinion that India’s loss in the first Test against South Africa was due to the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara. He raised questions about the selectors decision to leave out top performers like Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja.
“We didn’t select Ajinkya Rahane for the series and Cheteshwar Pujara was left out for no reason. Pujara has been a classy batter over the years and his contribution are equal to Virat Kohli’s performance in Test cricket. Pujara is the best Indian batter in Test cricket and we don’t have anyone like him. He takes time to score runs but saves you from defeats. It was his batting that led India to wins in Australia and England,” Harbhajan Singh said.
Following South Africa’s victory by an innings and 32 runs in Centurion, Harbhajan commented on the team’s performance, stating that India’s first innings score of 245 was insufficient to challenge South Africa.
“India were never in the game. They scored just 245 runs in the first innings after losing the toss. It was never going to be enough and that’s what happened in the end. The match finished in three days. India scored 131 in the second innings and if we remove Virat Kohli’s contribution, there is nothing to talk about,” he added.
He emphasized Pujara’s importance, highlighting his significant contributions to India’s victories in Australia and England, and pointed out that without Virat Kohli’s contribution in the second innings, India struggled.
Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan recently expressed his view that India is one of the most underperforming cricket teams globally. While watching the Australia vs Pakistan Test, Vaughan posed a question to Mark Waugh about India’s underachievement in sports. Waugh, rather than offering a direct response, turned the question back to Vaughan.
Vaughan remarked on India’s recent lack of significant victories and questioned their status as an underachieving side. Despite notable successes in Australia, he highlighted India’s absence from the winner’s circle in recent World Cups and T20 tournaments.
“They haven’t won much in recent times. I think they are (an underachieving side). They don’t win anything. When was the last time they won something? With all the talent they have, all the skill-set (they should have achieved more,” Vaughan said, talking in a Fox Sports panel. “They’ve won in Australia twice (Test series in 2018/19 and 2020/21). Magnificent. But the last few World Cups, (they have) been nowhere, in the last few T20 World Cups, (they have) been nowhere,” he added.
Expressing his belief that India, given their abundant talent and resources, should have accomplished more, Vaughan emphasized the team’s potential. Despite acknowledging India as a formidable squad, he expressed disappointment in their overall winning record.
“They’re a good team. They have got plenty of talent but with all the talent they have and the resources they have, I just don’t think they win,” he said.
In essence, Michael Vaughan critiqued India for not capitalizing on their talent and resources, questioning their relative lack of success on the global cricket stage.
After the pre-match analysis of the PAK vs AUS Test, where Australia comfortably won by 79 runs at the MCG, Michael Vaughan mentioned that India will face South Africa on January 3rd in Cape Town, and Pakistan will take on Australia on the same date in Sydney.
The Boxing Day Test between South Africa and India took an unfortunate turn for the Proteas as their skipper and experienced batter, Temba Bavuma, suffered a left hamstring strain in the first session. Bavuma, who left the field during the 20th over of India’s innings, is now doubtful for the second Test in Cape Town. This development has prompted speculation about potential replacements for the batter if he is unable to participate in the upcoming match.
1. Wiaan Mulder
Pieter Willem Adriaan Mulder, known as Wiaan Mulder, is an all-rounder with a right-arm fast-medium bowling style. He made his Test debut against Sri Lanka in February 2019 and has since been part of South Africa’s Test squad. He has played 12 Test matches, scoring 326 runs at an average of 15.52. While he is yet to register a century, his all-round capabilities make him a valuable asset.
2. Sarel Erwee
Sarel Erwee is a left-handed batter and a right-arm off-break bowler for South Africa. He made his Test debut against New Zealand in February 2022, where he impressed by scoring his maiden Test century, contributing 108 runs in the first innings. In his ten Test matches, Erwee has accumulated 479 runs at an average of 26.61, including one century and one half-century.
3. Rassie van der Dussen
Rassie van der Dussen is a seasoned professional representing the South Africa national cricket team. He made his Test debut against England in December 2019 and has been a consistent performer in the Test format. In 18 Test matches, van der Dussen has amassed 905 runs at an average of 30.16. Although he is yet to score a century, his ability to contribute with crucial runs makes him a reliable option.
Temba Bavuma’s injury occurred during the first session of the Boxing Day Test against India, forcing him to leave the field and undergo a scan. If Bavuma is unable to bat, South Africa will be a player short for the remainder of the match, as external injury replacements are not allowed. Bavuma’s potential absence also raises concerns about his availability for the New Year’s Test starting on January 3 in Cape Town.
The uncertainty surrounding Temba Bavuma’s participation in the second Test against India opens the door for other talented players to step up and contribute to the team’s success. Sarel Erwee, Wiaan Mulder, and Rassie van der Dussen bring different skills to the table, providing the team management with viable options to consider based on the match situation and team dynamics. The upcoming Test will not only test the replacement player’s skills but also their ability to fill the leadership void if Bavuma, who appeared to be leading the team in the first Test, is unable to play a further role.
India and South Africa are engaged in the 1st Test match at the SuperSport Park Stadium in Centurion from December 26, 2023. The third day of the Test match is tomorrow. This article covers the pitch report about the day 3.
IND vs SA 1st Test Day 3 SuperSport Park Pitch Report Today Match 2023
On the anticipated third day of the Test match between India and South Africa at SuperSport Park Stadium in Centurion, the pitch is expected to offer favorable conditions for the pacers. The surface is likely to provide assistance to seam bowlers with its conducive conditions, making it a challenging prospect for the batsmen facing pace deliveries.
Contrastingly, the spinners may find the pitch less accommodating, as the surface is not anticipated to provide significant assistance for spin bowling. The nature of the pitch suggests that the pacers will play a crucial role in exploiting the conditions and making an impact during the course of the match.
South African captain Temba Bavuma faced an unfortunate setback during the ongoing Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test against India at Supersport Park in Centurion. In the first session, while attempting to stop a ball, Bavuma strained his left hamstring, causing him considerable pain.
Immediately after the injury, Bavuma limped off the field and received attention from physiotherapists. Since then, he has not been able to participate in the game, leaving his role in the match uncertain. Following the injury, Bavuma underwent scans, revealing the hamstring strain. His potential return to the game will depend on daily medical evaluations, with participation contingent on his fitness.
As Day 1 concludes with uncertainty about Bavuma’s involvement, and with four days remaining in the series, the team management may exercise caution to avoid risking his participation. South Africa is hopeful for a swift recovery for Bavuma, considering his crucial role both as a key batsman and the team’s captain.
Also Read: Chinese Brands Not Allowed For IPL 2024 Title Sponsorship, Says BCCI
In Bavuma’s absence, former captain Dean Elgar assumed the captaincy role, making a significant impact on the match. Elgar’s strategic leadership has applied pressure on the Indian team, with bowler Kagiso Rabada securing a fifer by dismissing key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Shardul Thakur.
Despite the challenging situation, South Africa is relying on standout performances, with KL Rahul leading the charge for India with a brilliant half-century. Rahul’s controlled and aggressive batting style has anchored the Indian innings, and he remains a key player as the team aims for a substantial total.
India vs South Africa Head to Head Test Records & Stats
In Test cricket meetings, South Africa slightly edges ahead in the head-to-head record against India, securing 17 wins in contrast to India’s 15 victories, with 10 matches ending in draws out of a total of 42 played.
India vs South Africa Head to Head Test Records & Stats in South Africa
When competing in South Africa, the Proteas enjoy a distinct advantage over India in Test cricket. They lead the head-to-head record with 12 wins, while India has secured 4 victories out of 23 matches. This results in a notable win percentage of 52.17 for South Africa.
Team
Wins
Total Matches
Win Percentage
South Africa
12
23
52.17%
India
4
23
–
India vs South Africa Head To Head Test Series Records & Stats
In Test series contested since 1992, South Africa holds the upper hand, securing victory in 8 series, while India has triumphed in 4 series. Additionally, three series between the teams concluded in a draw.
India and South Africa are set to face each other in the 1st Test match at the SuperSport Park Stadium in Centurion on December 26, 2023. ICC has already appointed the officials for the match.
IND vs SA 1st Test: List of Commentators for Today Match 2023
Ab de Villiers, Shaun Pollock, Graeme Smith, Morne Morkel, Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar and Harsha Bhogle are expected to commentate in today’s match.
Centurion Test Records & Stats- India vs South Africa 1st Test Today Match 2023
SuperSport Park, also known as Centurion Park, located in Centurion, South Africa, has been a significant venue for Test cricket since its inaugural match on 16/11/1995. Over the years, it has hosted 28 Test matches, with the last one concluding on 28/02/2023.
The home side boasts an impressive record, winning 22 out of the 28 matches played at SuperSport Park, reflecting a dominant success rate of 78.57%. Meanwhile, touring sides have secured victories in 3 matches (10.71%), and no neutral side has clinched a win.
Teams have showcased diverse strengths, with 13 matches won by batting first and an equal number won by batting second. The importance of winning the toss is evident, as both winning and losing the toss have resulted in an equal number of victories (13 each).
Noteworthy individual and team performances stand out in the records. Hashim Amla’s remarkable innings of 208 against West Indies on 17/12/2014 remains the highest individual score, while Keshav Abbott’s bowling figures of 7/29 on 22/02/2013 against Pakistan represent the best bowling in an innings. Kagiso Rabada’s outstanding match figures of 13/144 on 22/01/2016 against England hold the record for the best bowling in a match.
The highest team innings at SuperSport Park is 621 by South Africa on 26/12/2020 against Sri Lanka, while England’s 101 on 22/01/2016 marks the lowest team innings.
In terms of run chases, England achieved the highest successful chase with 251/8 on 14/01/2000 against South Africa.
Statistical averages provide additional insights, with an average opening stand of 29.94 runs, runs per wicket and runs per over both averaging 29.94 and 3.35, respectively. The average score batting first is 330, reflecting the challenging yet rewarding nature of Test cricket at this historic venue.
IND vs SA 1st Test SuperSport Park Centurion Pitch Report Today Match 2023
Anticipated for the Boxing Day Test at SuperSport Park, the pitch is poised to offer significant bounce, providing an advantage to both pacers and spinners, as affirmed by Pitch Curator Brian. The looming possibility of rain during the initial two days of the match adds an extra dimension, favoring the fast bowlers from both competing sides.
IND vs SA 1st Test SuperSport Park Centurion Avg Score, Highest Total and More Today Match 2023
SuperSport Park, also known as Centurion Park, located in Centurion, South Africa, has been a significant venue for Test cricket since its inaugural match on 16/11/1995. Over the years, it has hosted 28 Test matches, with the last one concluding on 28/02/2023.
The home side boasts an impressive record, winning 22 out of the 28 matches played at SuperSport Park, reflecting a dominant success rate of 78.57%. Meanwhile, touring sides have secured victories in 3 matches (10.71%), and no neutral side has clinched a win.
Teams have showcased diverse strengths, with 13 matches won by batting first and an equal number won by batting second. The importance of winning the toss is evident, as both winning and losing the toss have resulted in an equal number of victories (13 each).
Noteworthy individual and team performances stand out in the records. Hashim Amla’s remarkable innings of 208 against West Indies on 17/12/2014 remains the highest individual score, while Keshav Abbott’s bowling figures of 7/29 on 22/02/2013 against Pakistan represent the best bowling in an innings. Kagiso Rabada’s outstanding match figures of 13/144 on 22/01/2016 against England hold the record for the best bowling in a match.
The highest team innings at SuperSport Park is 621 by South Africa on 26/12/2020 against Sri Lanka, while England’s 101 on 22/01/2016 marks the lowest team innings.
In terms of run chases, England achieved the highest successful chase with 251/8 on 14/01/2000 against South Africa.
Statistical averages provide additional insights, with an average opening stand of 29.94 runs, runs per wicket and runs per over both averaging 29.94 and 3.35, respectively. The average score batting first is 330, reflecting the challenging yet rewarding nature of Test cricket at this historic venue.
SuperSport Park, also known as Centurion Park, located in Centurion, South Africa, has been a significant venue for Test cricket since its inaugural match on 16/11/1995. Over the years, it has hosted 28 Test matches, with the last one concluding on 28/02/2023.
The home side boasts an impressive record, winning 22 out of the 28 matches played at SuperSport Park, reflecting a dominant success rate of 78.57%. Meanwhile, touring sides have secured victories in 3 matches (10.71%), and no neutral side has clinched a win.
Teams have showcased diverse strengths, with 13 matches won by batting first and an equal number won by batting second. The importance of winning the toss is evident, as both winning and losing the toss have resulted in an equal number of victories (13 each).
Noteworthy individual and team performances stand out in the records. Hashim Amla’s remarkable innings of 208 against West Indies on 17/12/2014 remains the highest individual score, while Keshav Abbott’s bowling figures of 7/29 on 22/02/2013 against Pakistan represent the best bowling in an innings. Kagiso Rabada’s outstanding match figures of 13/144 on 22/01/2016 against England hold the record for the best bowling in a match.
The highest team innings at SuperSport Park is 621 by South Africa on 26/12/2020 against Sri Lanka, while England’s 101 on 22/01/2016 marks the lowest team innings.
In terms of run chases, England achieved the highest successful chase with 251/8 on 14/01/2000 against South Africa.
Statistical averages provide additional insights, with an average opening stand of 29.94 runs, runs per wicket and runs per over both averaging 29.94 and 3.35, respectively. The average score batting first is 330, reflecting the challenging yet rewarding nature of Test cricket at this historic venue.
