South Africa vs India 2nd Test Highlights 2024

In an extraordinary day of Test cricket at Cape Town, the second Test between South Africa and India unfolded with dramatic twists. A remarkable total of 23 wickets fell, including a historical collapse of India losing 6 wickets for no runs. Despite this, India maintained a lead, having bowled South Africa out for just 55 runs. The day was marked by exceptional bowling performances, particularly from Mohammed Siraj, and a pitch that proved to be a severe test for batsmen.

Morning Session: South Africa's Batting Ordeal

The day commenced with South Africa opting to bat, but they soon found themselves in trouble. Mohammed Siraj, displaying a masterclass in seam bowling, ripped through the Proteas' batting lineup. Dean Elgar, facing his final Test, experienced the rare misfortune of being dismissed twice in a day – a feat not seen since the 19th century.

South Africa's innings was characterized by a lack of resilience against the Indian bowling attack, succumbing to their lowest total against India in Tests. Siraj's spell was a combination of precision and potency, leaving the South African batsmen helpless and floundering.

India's Batting Response: A Swift Counter

In response to South Africa's meagre total, India opened with intent. Rohit Sharma, known for his aggressive batting, quickly accumulated runs, setting a positive tone. However, the South African bowlers, particularly Lungi Ngidi, struck back, removing the Indian openers.

Virat Kohli, steady at the crease, played some elegant shots, demonstrating his class and experience. Despite some initial stability, the Indian innings soon faced turbulence as the pitch started to reveal its challenging nature, characterized by inconsistent bounce and menacing seam movement.

Ngidi's Impact: Triggering India's Collapse

Lungi Ngidi, returning for his second spell, bowled with renewed vigour and intensity. His spell was a critical turning point in the game, as he claimed key wickets, including that of KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah. The variable bounce of the pitch played into Ngidi's hands, allowing him to exploit the conditions effectively. This spell initiated a dramatic collapse in the Indian batting order, undoing the earlier advantage they had established.

India's Unprecedented Collapse: A Record Low