'India's shot selection left much to be deserved': Sachin Tendulkar after 1st Test loss vs South Africa

The South Africa cricket team were ruthless as they got the better of India by an innings and 32 runs in the first Test on Thursday. This win helped South Africa maintain their scintillating home record against India. In the second innings, the South Africa pace bowling attack dismantled India for a paltry total of 131. The Proteas had ended their innings on 408 at the SuperSport Cricket Stadium in Centurion. This gave the hosts a substantial 163-run lead.

IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma and Co get a reality check with innings thrashing in Centurion

Amidst a concerning collapse in the second innings, only Virat Kohli displayed resilience, facing a lethal South Africa bowling attack. Debutant Nandre Burger scalped four wickets in the second innings. While Marco Jansen bagged three, Kagiso Rabada picked up two wickets in the second innings.

Speaking about the Test, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar said India’s shot selection left “much to be desired.” The Master Blaster even said that the Indian batting faltered despite the pitch easing out and becoming better to bat on.

“Well played South Africa! While I initially felt the South African team would’ve been unhappy after the 1st innings, their pace attack surpassed expectations and showcased remarkable skill in the 2nd innings, in spite of the pitch becoming more favourable for batting as the match progressed,” Tendulkar posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

Well played South Africa!

While I initially felt the South African team would’ve been unhappy after the 1st innings, their pace attack surpassed expectations and showcased remarkable skill in the 2nd innings, in spite of the pitch becoming more favourable for batting as the…

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) December 28, 2023

From the Indian side, Tendulkar praised Kohli and KL Rahul for navigating the waters with grit. He also praised Dean Elgar for hitting an excellent ton that propelled South Africa ahead.

“From whatever I watched, India’s shot selection left much to be desired. Throughout the Test, only a few batters, namely Elgar, Jansen, Bedingham, @imVkohli and @klrahul truly seemed at ease with the bat, navigating the conditions with technique and poise,” wrote Tendulkar on X.

This comprehensive victory ensures that South Africa cannot lose the two-match Test series. This will also maintain their brilliant track record on their home soil against India.

The third day started with South Africa holding an 11-run lead. Dean Elgar, starting at 140, cruised ahead to 185 but was dismissed half an hour before lunch. Displaying positive intent, Elgar and Jansen formed a swift 111-run partnership to guide South Africa to a comfortable position in the opening Test.