IND vs SA, Day 2: Dean Elgar's century steers South Africa to a dominant position at Centurion

By Ovaise Shariff | First Published Dec 27, 2023, 7:37 PM IST

South Africa's Dean Elgar notched a poignant century, leading the charge as the hosts reached 194-3 at tea against India on the second day of the Centurion Test.

Former South African captain, Dean Elgar, crafted a heartfelt century, propelling the hosts to 194-3 at tea on the second day of the first test against India at Centurion on Wednesday. Elgar, who assumed captaincy duties after Temba Bavuma's injury on Tuesday, displayed a sublime innings of 115 not out, steering South Africa in response to India's first innings total of 245.

Dean Elgar is the first South African batter to score a Test hundred against India in South Africa after 9 long years. pic.twitter.com/pA8k8Y65um

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns)

Facing a formidable Indian attack on a seam-friendly track, the 36-year-old Elgar, set to retire after the two-match series, played flamboyant front foot strokes in his chanceless innings. Celebrating his 14th test century and first at Centurion, his home ground, Elgar's ton came off 140 balls with 19 fours, marked by enthusiastic celebrations with a boundary.

Tap to resize

Latest Videos

Tap to resize

Elgar, in partnership with Tony de Zorzi, contributed to a 93-run second-wicket stand, laying a solid foundation before Jasprit Bumrah's quick strikes slowed down the run rate. Bumrah dismissed De Zorzi and Keegan Petersen, but Elgar and debutant David Bedingham's unbeaten 81-run partnership ensured South Africa's resilience, reaching 51 runs behind with seven wickets in hand at tea.

South Africa impressed with a run rate of 4.39, scoring 145 runs in the second session. Earlier, KL Rahul completed his century for India, adding 37 runs to their overnight score of 208-8 before being bowled out for 245. Nandre Burger, making his debut, claimed 3-50, while Kagiso Rabada shone with 5-59.

For more reliable and latest news