South Africa’s top batsman Aiden Markram notched his maiden century against India, marking his seventh Test hundred overall, in a spirited display at Cape Town’s Newlands Cricket Ground.
Aiden Markram emerged as South Africa’s savior in the Cape Town Test versus India, crafting a sensational century against a potent Indian pace attack, striving to revive the Proteas’ fortunes. Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s impactful five-wicket haul on Day 2, Markram countered fiercely, tallying a magnificent 106 runs off 103 balls, securing his sixth Test century. His innings included 17 boundaries and two sixes before Mohammed Siraj ended his brilliant display.
Dean Elgar, bidding farewell to his international career, was visibly moved by Markram’s stellar performance.
Markram dedicated his century to Elgar, gesturing towards him after raising his bat. Virat Kohli praised the South African opener, offering congratulations with a pat on the back and a handshake. Markram acknowledged Kohli’s gesture before departing the field.
Virat Kohli congratulated Aiden Markram on scoring an exceptional century.
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Notably, Markram’s hundred, achieved in 99 balls, ranks as the sixth-fastest by a South African in Tests, with AB de Villiers holding the record for the fastest, achieved in just 75 balls against India in Centurion back in 2010.
On the match front, the third inning concluded as South Africa was dismissed for 176 runs, setting India a target of 79 runs with three days remaining in the match. Markram’s dismissal triggered a collapse, despite Kagiso Rabada’s resistance against the Indian pace attack before falling. However, a determined lower-order partnership bolstered the Proteas’ lead to 78 runs, providing a buffer for their bowlers in the final innings.
With the game finely placed, the match outcome hinges on the SA bowlers’ ability to replicate India’s Day 1 performance, as the teams brace for an intense chase ahead.
Last Updated on January 4, 2024
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