India vs South Africa: Ravindra Jadeja starts training, could be available for second Test

Ravindra Jadeja trained before the third day of the first Test between India and South Africa at SuperSport Park in Centurion. Amid the doom and gloom that followed, the development would come as welcome news for the beleaguered travelling party. It raises hopes of his availability for the New Year’s Test in Cape Town.

Jadeja missed the opening Test, which India lost by an innings and 32 runs, due to “upper back spasm”. As a result, R Ashwin came into the playing XI as the only spinner in the team.

During the warm-ups, the all-rounder reportedly didn’t look in any discomfort as he ran multiple 30 to 40 metre short strides during the morning session. He also did a few fitness drills.

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During the lunch break, he bowled on the practice track alongside reserve pacer Mukesh Kumar. He indulged in spot-bowling under the eye of team’s strength and conditioning coach Rajnikant.

On a surface that was destined to help the seamers, R Ashwin didn’t look threatening. The off-spinner took 1/40 in 19 overs accounting for Gerald Coetzee’s wicket.

India have been struck by injuries and concerns during the tour of South Africa with Mohammed Shami, Ishan Kishan and Deepak Chahar all hampered by different reasons. KS Bharat replaced Kishan while Avesh Khan has replaced Mohammed Shami.

The third Test between South Africa and India will be played in Cape Town starting 3 January.