‘Beautiful start’ - Irfan Pathan lauds Mohammed Siraj’s sensational spell with his mesmerizing commentary

Star Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj was the star of the show for team India on Day 1 of the second Test against South Africa. Winning the first Test, the Proteas came into the clash on the back of some much-needed confidence; however, the same was quickly fizzled when Siraj took centre stage.

Batting first, South Africa looked to post a big target on the board. However, Siraj’s six-wicket haul saw the hosts bundled out for just 55 runs in the first innings. The 29-year-old took six wickets and conceded just 15 runs in nine overs. The same spell heavily impressed the former India all-rounder, Irfan Pathan, who was part of the commentary team. Pathan consistently lauded Siraj’s spell as he wreaked havoc on the Proteas.

“ After 19 brilliant deliveries, Siraj gets the first wicket on the 20th ball, and a big one in Aiden Markram. After Bumrah’s early pressure, it was Siraj who struck the Proteas,” Pathan said while commentating on the ongoing second Test between India and South Africa.

“Dean Elgar was struggling today, with good line and length and the pressure that came before the wicket by Siraj was the prime reason for the wicket,” Pathan said.

South Africa look to minimise trail as Day 2 approaches

Talking of the game, Day 1 of the final Test of the series between India and South Africa saw the Proteas bundled out for just 55 runs in the first innings. Aiming to post a big total on the board, the visitors were unable to go big as well. Star batter Virat Kohli was the highest run-getter for India in the first innings scoring 46 runs in 59 deliveries. Skipper Rohit Sharma added 39 runs on the board with Shubman Gill scoring 36 runs as well. 

The Indian team posted a total of 153 runs on the board before they were bundled out. As for Proteas Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, and Nandre Burger took three wickets each. As the second innings came around, the day ended with South Africa losing three wickets. Notably, stand-in skipper Dean Elgar played the last knock of his Test career and failed to make an impact in the second innings as well. At the moment, South Africa are 62/3 at stumps on Day 1, with Aiden Markam and David Bedingham at the crease.