WATCH: KL Rahul’s priceless reaction after Marco Jansen’s attempt to engage in mind games

Team India began their 2023 Test series versus South Africa in Centurion on Tuesday. KL Rahul was the only man who stood up to the pace attack that was put on the field. At the end of the day, India was 208/8 with the Indian wicketkeeper batting on 70 along with Mohammed Siraj. 

Rain and bad weather brought an early end to what was a fascinating play on the 1st day. Kagiso Rabada picked an amazing fifer to reach 500 International wickets for his national side.

As day two beckons the Indian fans will hope that KL Rahul can continue his good form with the bat. The 31-year-old had scored an imperious century at the same venue during India’s last visit to South Africa two years ago.

Marco Jansen fails in ruffling KL Rahul’s concentration

Kagiso Rabada and Nandre Burger were running riot against KL Rahul who was steadfast at one end. Sensing the Indian wicketkeeper was not losing his cool even though Marco Jansen tried to deter his concentration with some mind games.

South Africa’s young left-arm-seamer was seen saying something to KL Rahul after the end of a delivery. The 31-year-old just shrugged it off and was seen smiling at the bowler. This reaction was not expected as the bowler could only look away in utter disbelief and make his way back to the bowling mark.

Watch the video below:

pic.twitter.com/OYlJCFxYjL

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It was a special day for lead South African pacer Kagiso Rabada as he reached the 500-wicket mark. The 28-year-old has bowled 17 overs and picked 5/44 against the celebrated Indian batting unit. 

Rohit Sharma was the first to go when he was caught by Nandre Burger of Rabada for five. The post-lunch session saw the right-arm pacer trouble the Indian batters with his pace and swing. Shreyas Iyer’s stumps were knocked back for 31, while Virat Kohli could only edge the ball back to the wicketkeeper for 38.

Ravichandran Ashwin was done in by a terrific ball as Mulder took an amazing catch. Shardul Thakur who was tested with short-balls then offered Dean Elgar an easy grab for 24. Mohammed Siraj will be facing the first ball on day two and the Indian fans will hope India can get to at least 250 to put pressure on the home side.