As expected, the start of Day 2’s play of first Test in Centurion between India and South Africa has been delayed due to rain. As far as weather forecasts are concerned, there was a 100 per cent chance of rain on Day 2 and there is a slim chance of any cricket taking place at the SuperSport Park.
It has been raining in Centurion since morning on December 27. The rain did eased up a bit and supersoppers were out to remove water from the ground but 25 minutes later the rain returned and washed out any chances of first session taking place.
Also, puddles can be seen on the ground and it will take some effort from the groundstaff to make it ready for the action to start even if the rain stops. However, rain is unlikely to play spoilsport on Day 3 and Day 4 followed by a rain-affected final day.
On Day 1, India dominated South Africa with the scorecard reading 272/3 at the end of day’s play. Opener KL Rahul scored an unbeaten 122 to become only second Indian opener to score a century on South African soil. Rahul shared a 117-run stand with opener Mayank Agarwal who scored 60 runs off 123 balls.
Cheteshwar Pujara was the only batsman who could not open his account and got out for a golden duck. Skipper Virat Kohli looked promising and scored 35 before playing a reckless shot away from his body and losing his wicket. Under-pressure Ajinkya Rahane stayed unbeaten for 40 after 90 overs were bowled on first day of the first Test.
