On the brink of retirement, South African cricket stalwart Dean Elgar delivered a masterful performance, scoring an impressive 140 not out on the second day of the first Test against India at SuperSport Park in Centurion. The retiring left-handed opener, who announced his exit from international cricket after the upcoming second Test in Cape Town, showcased sublime stroke play against India’s formidable bowlers.
Facing the new ball bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, Elgar navigated a challenging start before blossoming into a boundary-studded innings. Surprisingly, India did not immediately utilize their key strike bowlers after lunch, allowing Elgar to build momentum. He reached his fifty off 79 balls and secured his 14th Test century from 140 deliveries, ending the day with an unbeaten 140 runs, a remarkable achievement as his first Test century at his home ground.
Expressing his delight, Elgar stated after the match, “It’s a special game for me, my last international fixture here, and my family and friends are watching. I haven’t had a Test hundred at Centurion before — it’s the one that got away so I’m very happy to be on the board.”
“I’ve now got hundreds at all the Test venues in South Africa, which is pretty cool. We spoke about it in the changeroom, some of the guys thought I had made a few centuries here, but I had to tell them I’ve been rubbish here,” added Elgar.
Dean Elgar nullifies KL Rahul efforts
KL Rahul century for India, his eighth in Test cricket and second successive one in Centurion, was a highlight for the visiting team. Despite Rahul’s efforts, India was eventually dismissed for 245, setting the stage for Dean Elgar and new cap David Bedingham to guide South Africa into the lead with a score of 256 for five.
Bedingham, making his Test debut, contributed an assured 56 runs, displaying composure and skill. His partnership with Dean Elgar added 131 runs for the fourth wicket. However, late wickets by the Indian bowlers kept the contest finely balanced, especially with South African captain Temba Bavuma suffering a hamstring strain on the first day, casting doubt on his ability to bat.
As Dean Elgar celebrates his stellar performance and imminent retirement, the Proteas aim to build on their lead in the ongoing Test series against India. The Centurion Test promises more excitement as the battle between bat and ball unfolds.
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