After a disappointing loss in the first Test, India bounced back brilliantly to tie the two-match test series by winning the 2nd test at Cape Town by 7 wickets. South Africa set a target of just 79 for India courtesy of Aiden Markram's valiant second-fastest test century under testing conditions.
India blasted through the chase in just 12 overs, with Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal opening the batting brilliantly. The foundation of India's triumph in the second innings was laid by the impressive opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Their 44-run stand set the tone for India's pursuit of the 79-run target.
On the South African side, Aiden Markram's aggressive century stood out. Despite India's strong bowling lineup, Markram's 106 runs off 103 balls showcased his dominance on the challenging pitch. While Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill fell early in the chase, their brief contributions were vital in steering India towards the target. The team embraced an attacking approach, emphasizing the intent to clinch the victory.
Shortest test match in Test history
The second test match at Cape Town created a historic feat as it became the shortest test match in the history of test cricket in terms of balls. The test ended under five sessions and lasted only for 642 balls which makes it the shortest test match in terms of balls. This match will bring in the Apex Governing Council's scrutiny on the quality of the pitch and it has sparked the debate on whether these kinds of wickets are healthy for test cricket or not.
Siraj and Shami paved the way for the historic win
Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah's bowling brilliance in the second and fourth innings respectively was a highlight of the match as both of them picked six wickets each in both innings. Their strategic change in length and precise deliveries earned them exceptional bowling figures playing a pivotal role in India's success.
The India vs. South Africa Test series provided cricket fans with an exhilarating showcase of the skill and determination of the Indian cricket team. Social media erupted with excitement and praises on the performance of the Indian cricket team in the 2nd test. Fans expressed their admiration for the nominees, creating a buzz around the award ceremony. Here are some of the tweets from fans on X:
Congratulations Team India for historic win 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/e2Cnrk6r3l
— Pankaj (@Pankaj41627) January 4, 2024
Congratulations India on impressive win against South Africa in an away game..!! 🇮🇳
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) January 4, 2024
They defeated us in 3 days, We defeated them in 2 days 💪🔥 pic.twitter.com/1dIBqBL7DW
First Asian team to win at CapeTown.
— Nabaroon Goswami (@nabaroon) January 4, 2024
Ek tha jo bina khele hi south africa ko match jitwa deta tha pic.twitter.com/5FYWUgDaXG
— Kirkett (@bhaskar_sanu08) January 4, 2024
We gave the taste of their own medicine. Well played India - Siraj, Bumrah and company
— Amitabh Verma (@amitabh26) January 4, 2024
Just shows If the team had practice matches ..SA had no chance...
— Sanfornow (@sanfornow_2040) January 4, 2024
This is history 🤩 https://t.co/SuTkuPWHdM
— CricXtra (@CricXtra_) January 4, 2024