Shutting all critics, India finished the first test in style by routing South Africa by 123 runs. As Dravid said, the boys went berserk at the Wanderers Stadium after wiping out the opposition for 278 and clinching their triumphant maiden test victory on South African soil.
South Africa needed 402 runs to win the match, with two days remaining; however, the imminent finish was sealed when the host lost its last five wickets for just 115.
South Africa resumed the game today but Mark Boucher was sent back to the pavilion leg-before-wicket by Zaheer Khan in the day’s second over. Prince, Shaun Pollock and Andre Nel fall victim to Anil Kumble and Zaheer Khan did the rest of the job by taking wicket of Makhaya Ntini.
Prince was the top scorer and gave a good fight; however, he missed his century and was bowled by Kumble for 97.
The historical win is India’s first in South Africa and first in 10 tests since 1992/93.
Now certainly, the ball is in India’s court and let’s see how things go for both the teams in the second test to be played in Durban from Dec. 26. But, one thing is sure, India is in high spirits after the win and have full advantage which the team should not give away. Apparently, it’s the only chance they’ve to take revenge of the ODI debacle and also they’re no more the underdogs.
Sreesanth undoubtedly emerged as a hero and was awarded the Man of the Match for picking up eight wickets. Performances by VVS Laxman and Sourav Ganguly too played a major role in turning the game in India’s favor. The pitch was a heaven for pacers and perhaps, the team will have to face similar conditions in Druban too. At this level, pitches cannot be termed culprits and hopefully Indian bowlers will take full advantage by keeping intact the attack.
Via: Hindu
