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The crucial series-deciding Test match between India and South Africa at Newlands Park in Cape Town unfolded in a way nobody would have remotely imagined. A total of 23 wickets fell like nine pins on Day 1 which turned everyone's heads. Bowling first India rode on Mohammed Siraj's stunning spell of 5/16 to bundle out South Africa for a measly 55. Indian batters too struggled to stay on the pitch and in reply they could only post 153 on the board, thanks to Virat Kohli's patient 46 off 59. Failing to capitalise on the second chance, South African batters yet again found themselves in lurch as they finished the Day 1's play at 62/3, trailing behind 36 runs.
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The New Year's Test unfolded in an unexpected manner but was filled with memorable episodes. Amidst the intense clash between the two teams, Virat Kohli once again found himself at the heart of attention, captivating everyone with his lively behavior. Kohli was in high spirits and went out of his way to amuse both his teammates and the spectators. Kohli alongwith his teammate Shubman Gill were seen playing ‘Ringa Ringa roses’ during the latter part of the day. The video soon went viral on social media which shows the two batters holding hands and spinning around, clearly enjoying each other's company.
This light-hearted moment between Kohli and Gill came to the fore while South Africa was batting in their second innings of the day.
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE…
India initially dismissed South Africa for 55 runs, but the Proteas' bowlers quickly reciprocated. Under Dean Elgar's leadership, they wrapped up India's innings at 153 runs, ensuring the visitors didn't secure a lead of more than 100 runs.
Despite only managing a lead of 98 runs in the first innings, India expected South Africa to step up their performance in their second innings. However, the Indian pacers continued their impressive form, taking three wickets and ending the day on a high note.
Even though India were bowled out for just 153 runs, there were commendable batting efforts from the team. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli stood out as key contributors, playing crucial roles in securing a significant lead for the team in the first innings. After losing Yashasvi Jaiswal early in the innings, Shubman Gill took charge. He skillfully handled a challenging phase alongside captain Rohit Sharma (39), with the pair adding over 50 runs in their partnership, providing a solid foundation for the team. Following the captain's dismissal, Gill partnered with Virat Kohli to continue building the innings.
Kohli and Gill put up a commendable batting performance, contributing to a 33-run partnership. Both players got off to promising starts but were unable to convert them into larger scores. Gill finished his innings with 36 runs, while Kohli contributed 46 runs.
The ongoing series between India and South Africa currently stands at 1-0 in favor of the Proteas. Although the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team can't win the series, they have a significant opportunity to level it. A victory in the current match would mark the first time since 2010 that India has drawn a series in South Africa.
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