India’s batting lineup collapsed like a pack of cards on Day 3 as they were bundled out for 131 despite Virat Kohli’s 76-run knock. No other batter showed application long enough to get rid of the trail. Skipper Rohit Sharma disappointed his fans again as he got bowled by his nemesis Kagiso Rabada for a golden duck. After India's loss by an innings and 32 runs, Rohit lauded KL Rahul who scored a century in the first innings but admitted that the batters did not adapt to the conditions.
“We were not good enough to win. Having been put into bat, KL batted well to get us that score but then we didn't exploit the conditions with the ball and then again didn't show up today with the bat. If we have to win Test matches, we have to come together collectively and we didn't do that. Guys have come here before, we know what to expect and everyone has their own plan,” Rohit said in the post-match presentation.
“Our batters were challenged and we didn't adapt well. This is a boundary-scoring ground, we saw them score many but we need to understand the opposition and their strengths as well. We didn't bat well in both innings, that's why we stand here. Not too many positives to finish the game within 3 days, but KL showed what we need to do on this sort of pitch.”
While Rohit said that his bowlers were not able to exploit the conditions, he did not want to over overly critical of them because of their inexperience.
“Our bowlers, a lot of these guys haven't been here before so I don't want to be too critical. Important for us to regroup, we go through these times as sportsmen and we need to be ready for the next Test now,” he further added.
With a big loss in the first Test, India's wait to win a Test series on South African soil continues. India will have a chance to draw the two-Test series next year. The second Test will begin on January 3 at Newlands, Cape Town.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
David Warner bids adieu to MCG in whites amid cheers in AUS vs PAK 2nd Test; watch video
