Bumrah aids India, securing fastest Test win against South Africa
India's 642-Ball Victory: Series Tied 1-1, SA 55 & 176; IND 153 & 80-3, Sealing Historic Two-Day Test
Sumit Rawat
In a historic turn of events, India swiftly secured their most rapid Test victory against South Africa, leveling their series early on the second afternoon at Cape Town.
Chasing down a fourth-innings target of 79 runs within a mere 12 overs at Newlands, the tourists sealed a match originally slated to conclude on Sunday evening, astonishingly wrapping up the game in only 642 deliveries.
This monumental feat shattered a longstanding record set in 1932 during South Africa's defeat against Australia in Melbourne, eclipsing it by 14 deliveries to become the shortest Test win ever in terms of balls bowled. Remarkably, across a span of just over four cricket sessions, a wicket fell on average less than every 20 balls.
Retiring South African captain Dean Elgar expressed the challenge they faced, admitting, "It was tough for us. We were positive coming into the game, but India bowled well and exploited the conditions perfectly."
Amidst discussions surrounding the pitch's condition, concerns arose over whether the brevity of the match stemmed from batting errors or an inadequate surface. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma advocated for a review of pitch evaluations, emphasizing the undue criticism India faces in home Tests.
Commenting on the playing conditions characterized by variable bounce and lateral movement, Rohit acknowledged the dangers but asserted his readiness to compete on such surfaces, underlining the need for neutrality in assessing pitches across different locations.
Highlighting discrepancies in pitch ratings, Rohit referred to the World Cup final pitch in Ahmedabad, expressing disbelief over its substandard rating. Despite Proteas' resilient efforts, notably Aiden Markram's gritty 106, they succumbed to Jasprit Bumrah's impressive six for 61, failing to offer substantial resistance.
India, unfazed, initiated their pursuit post-lunch, displaying unwavering efficiency as they swiftly crossed the finish line, solidifying their exceptional Test victory.
