2nd Test, India beat SA: Here are the key takeaways
The Indian cricket team beat South Africa in the second Test to clinch the three-match Test series. India, who are 2-0 up, won the match in Pune by an innings and 137 runs. Team India won its 11th successive Test series at home as well. Here we look at the key takeaways from the Pune Test.
How did the second Test pan out?
India posted a massive 601/5 (declared) in the first innings. The hosts rode on Kohli's record-breaking 254* to pile on the runs. South Africa were reeling under pressure but managed 275 after Keshav Maharaj (72) led the way. Asked to bat again, the Proteas then faltered in the second innings to surrender the Test match. Umesh Yadav and R Ashwin delivered for India.
Virat Kohli shows why he is a real Test legend
Kohli was top notch in this Test and he made batting look so simple. He played a positive innings and grew in stature to pile on the runs. To slam a seventh career Test double hundred at the age of 30, shows the skipper's hunger and willingness to bat for long periods. He stood out with two superb partnerships in the match.
Umesh makes an impressive return, Ashwin shines
This was a Test match that was highly crucial for Umesh Yadav. The right-arm pacer had replaced an injured Jasprit Bumrah for the Test series. Umesh made the most out of this chance and claimed six scalps. This highlighted India's depth in the fast-bowling resources. Meanwhile, R Ashwin was superb as well. The spinner claimed all the crucial wickets when needed.
Du Plessis will be angry on Proteas batsmen
Faf du Plessis will not be happy with the batting of the side. In both innings, the lower order batsmen chipped in. Some of the shot-making across both innings looked horrible. This wasn't proper Test cricket batting by the Proteas. If they continue in the same manner, then it will be hard for them to get desired results in the near future.
Maharaj and Philander frustrate the Indian bowlers
Indian bowlers were left frustrated by the Proteas pair of Keshav Maharaj and Vernon Philander. In the first innings, the two shared a gritty 109-run stand for the ninth wicket and took the teeth out of the Indian attack. And then in the second innings, the two got along and shared a 56-run stand for the eighth wicket. Both these players deserve the credit.
India consolidate their position in the ICC World Test Championship
India won their second successive Test series and the fourth consecutive match in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship. With this victory, India now have 200 points. There were 40 points up for grabs in this Test.
