CAPE TOWN: Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj led a devastating attack on the South African batting lineup, orchestrating their collapse to a mere 55 runs before lunch on the opening day of the second Test at Newlands on Wednesday.
Siraj, in a career-defining performance, got a remarkable six wickets for just 15 runs, bowling relentlessly for nine consecutive overs as South Africa’s decision to bat first backfired spectacularly. The hosts’ total marked their lowest since the 1931/32 series against Australia when they were dismissed for 36 and 45.
Stand-in South African captain Dean Elgar, playing in his final Test, had emphasized the importance of a strong start for his team, defending a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. However, it was India that dominated the morning session on a pitch offering considerable bounce and seam movement.
Siraj Dismantles South Africa’s Batting Lineup
Siraj’s mastery of the conditions was evident as none of the South African batters found comfort against his relentless deliveries. The collapse began when he dismissed Aiden Markram for two runs in his second over, followed by the crucial wicket of Captain Elgar for four in the next.
Jasprit Bumrah joined the onslaught, claiming the wicket of debutant Tristan Stubbs for three before Siraj returned to take four more wickets. Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s decision to continue with Siraj paid off as the fast bowler dismissed David Bedingham (12) and Marco Jansen (0) in his eighth over.
Siraj’s exceptional spell concluded with the dismissal of top-scorer Kyle Verreynne, who managed 15 runs before falling victim to the relentless bowler in the ninth over.
