India lost the third and final Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Friday (January 14). Day 4 commenced with South Africa in the driver's seat, at 101-2 in pursuit of 212, as Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the home side to win by 7 wickets and claim the series 2-1.

The series had plenty of moments as both sides showed a lot of character, grit and determination to emerge on top. Thus, the three-match Test series was intensely and Day 3 of the final Test was a prove of it. After Rishabh Pant's unbeaten ton propelled India to setup a 212-run target for the home side, Dean Elgar survived a very close lbw call during the fag end of the day's proceedings, off R Ashwin's bowling.&nbsp;

After being given out initially by the on-field umpire, Elgar referred the decision upstairs. While the replays showed that the ball had hit the batter below the knee, the hawk-eye displayed that the ball was going above the stumps. Hence, he managed to survive as Indian players expressed their frustration without mincing their words.

Captain Kohli said on the stump-mic, "Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time."

Meanwhile, KL Rahul was heard saying, “Whole country playing against XI guys," whereas the 35-year-old Ashwin and said, "You should find better ways to win Supersport (the host broadcaster)."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-are-india-complaining-now-saeed-ajmal-reacts-as-his-wounds-from-2011-world-cup-comes-alive-444720">Why are India complaining now? Saeed Ajmal reacts as his wounds from 2011 World Cup comes alive</a>

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has now commented on the DRS controversy and lashed out at Team India for their rant on-field. He told Fox Sports, “I think that is disgraceful from the Indians personally. Decisions go with you, they go against you, that didn’t go the way they think it should have gone. Virat Kohli is a legend of the game, but that’s not the way to act, that is not the way to act in a game of Test match cricket."

“The ICC have to stamp this down, they have to stamp down on the Indian side, you can’t get away with talking down the stump microphone like Ravi Ashwin has done and the Indian captain has done," added the ex-England skipper.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-must-be-severely-punished-ex-sa-batter-shares-his-take-on-drs-controversy-in-cape-town-test-444689">Kohli must be severely punished: Ex-SA batter shares his take on DRS controversy in Cape Town Test</a>

On Day 4, on Friday, India eventually lost the third Test and the series, 2-1, to miss out on a golden opportunity to win a maiden Test series on South African soil. In the ICC World Test Championship points table, the No. 1 ranked Indian team also slipped below SA to occupy the fifth spot following the series loss.

On being asked what action should the ICC take. he asserted, "He needs to be fined, he needs to be suspended."

India lost the third and final Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Friday (January 14). Day 4 commenced with South Africa in the driver's seat, at 101-2 in pursuit of 212, as Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the home side to win by 7 wickets and claim the series 2-1.

India lost the third and final Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Friday (January 14). Day 4 commenced with South Africa in the driver's seat, at 101-2 in pursuit of 212, as Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the home side to win by 7 wickets and claim the series 2-1. The series had plenty of moments as both sides showed a lot of character, grit and determination to emerge on top. Thus, the three-match Test series was intensely and Day 3 of the final Test was a prove of it. After Rishabh Pant's unbeaten ton propelled India to setup a 212-run target for the home side, Dean Elgar survived a very close lbw call during the fag end of the day's proceedings, off R Ashwin's bowling. After being given out initially by the on-field umpire, Elgar referred the decision upstairs. While the replays showed that the ball had hit the batter below the knee, the hawk-eye displayed that the ball was going above the stumps. Hence, he managed to survive as Indian players expressed their frustration without mincing their words. Captain Kohli said on the stump-mic, "Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time." Meanwhile, KL Rahul was heard saying, “Whole country playing against XI guys," whereas the 35-year-old Ashwin and said, "You should find better ways to win Supersport (the host broadcaster)." ALSO READ | Why are India complaining now? Saeed Ajmal reacts as his wounds from 2011 World Cup comes alive Former England captain Michael Vaughan has now commented on the DRS controversy and lashed out at Team India for their rant on-field. He told Fox Sports, “I think that is disgraceful from the Indians personally. Decisions go with you, they go against you, that didn’t go the way they think it should have gone. Virat Kohli is a legend of the game, but that’s not the way to act, that is not the way to act in a game of Test match cricket." “The ICC have to stamp this down, they have to stamp down on the Indian side, you can’t get away with talking down the stump microphone like Ravi Ashwin has done and the Indian captain has done," added the ex-England skipper. ALSO READ | Kohli must be severely punished: Ex-SA batter shares his take on DRS controversy in Cape Town Test On Day 4, on Friday, India eventually lost the third Test and the series, 2-1, to miss out on a golden opportunity to win a maiden Test series on South African soil. In the ICC World Test Championship points table, the No. 1 ranked Indian team also slipped below SA to occupy the fifth spot following the series loss. On being asked what action should the ICC take. he asserted, "He needs to be fined, he needs to be suspended."

Virat Kohli should be fined or suspended: Michael Vaughan lashes out at Team India over DRS rant

India's Test captain Virat Kohli remains a livewire on the field when leading his side. He rarely shies away from getting into the nerves of the opposition and likes to give it back. Kohli was absolutely furious after a controversial DRS call went in South Africa's favour during Day 3 of the ongoing third Test between the two sides in Cape Town on Thursday.

Kohli lost his cool and directed a brutal dig towards the host broadcaster (SuperSport) after South Africa skipper Dean Elgar survived an LBW call. R Ashwin had trapped Elgar plumb and the ball hit him below his knee, however, the DRS&nbsp;hawk-eye predicted the ball to be going over the stumps.

Kohli along with the likes of Ashwin and KL Rahul aimed jibes at the host broadcaster after the decision saw Elgar survive. Many have criticised Kohli and the other Indian players for going overboard with their reaction, including former India opener Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir slammed Kohli for setting the wrong example with his behaviour.

Calling the Indian skipper 'immature', Gambhir said with such actions, Kohli can never become an idol for youngsters across the nation. “Kohli is very immature. It's worst for an Indian captain to say like this in stumps. By doing this you will never be an idol to youngsters," Gambhir said on Star Sports.

“In the first innings, you got a 50-50 call on caught behind then you were silent and in Mayank appeal too. I think Dravid will talk to him on this topic,” he added.

Kohli was visibly upset after Elgar's dismissal was overturned by the DRS before he walked up to the stumps to vent out his frustration. "Focus on your team while they shine the ball. Not just the opposition. Trying to catch people all the time,” he was heard saying on the stump-mic taking a dig at the official&nbsp;broadcaster.

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Reaction on Stump mic after Dean Elgar's LBW was overturned: 
 
Erasmus - that's impossible. 
 
Ashwin - you should find better ways to win, Supersport. 
 
Kohli - Focus on your team as well. Trying to catch people all the time. 
 
KL - whole country playing against XI guys. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvsIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/v9ntM86d5D">pic.twitter.com/v9ntM86d5D</a>
— Achal (@Achal_Singh18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Achal_Singh18/status/1481731476236423180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/focus-on-your-team-virat-kohli-vents-out-anger-on-stump-mic-after-dean-elgar-drs-controversy-watch-444641">'Focus on your team..': Kohli vents out anger on stump mic after Dean Elgar DRS controversy - WATCH</a>

Elgar had been initially ruled out by the on-field umpire but he decided to review the LBW call and managed to survive, thanks to the hawk-eye. Elgar was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah later in the day after scoring 30 runs off 96 balls to take South Africa in a comfortable position in the game.

In pursuit of the target of 212 runs, South Africa were 101/2 at stumps on Day 3 and need just 111 runs to win the game with two days to play. A win will see South Africa clinch the three-match Test series 2-1.

&nbsp;

India's Test captain Virat Kohli remains a livewire on the field when leading his side. He rarely shies away from getting into the nerves of the opposition and likes to give it back.

India's Test captain Virat Kohli remains a livewire on the field when leading his side. He rarely shies away from getting into the nerves of the opposition and likes to give it back. Kohli was absolutely furious after a controversial DRS call went in South Africa's favour during Day 3 of the ongoing third Test between the two sides in Cape Town on Thursday. Kohli lost his cool and directed a brutal dig towards the host broadcaster (SuperSport) after South Africa skipper Dean Elgar survived an LBW call. R Ashwin had trapped Elgar plumb and the ball hit him below his knee, however, the DRS hawk-eye predicted the ball to be going over the stumps. Kohli along with the likes of Ashwin and KL Rahul aimed jibes at the host broadcaster after the decision saw Elgar survive. Many have criticised Kohli and the other Indian players for going overboard with their reaction, including former India opener Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir slammed Kohli for setting the wrong example with his behaviour. Calling the Indian skipper 'immature', Gambhir said with such actions, Kohli can never become an idol for youngsters across the nation. “Kohli is very immature. It's worst for an Indian captain to say like this in stumps. By doing this you will never be an idol to youngsters," Gambhir said on Star Sports. “In the first innings, you got a 50-50 call on caught behind then you were silent and in Mayank appeal too. I think Dravid will talk to him on this topic,” he added. Kohli was visibly upset after Elgar's dismissal was overturned by the DRS before he walked up to the stumps to vent out his frustration. "Focus on your team while they shine the ball. Not just the opposition. Trying to catch people all the time,” he was heard saying on the stump-mic taking a dig at the official broadcaster. Reaction on Stump mic after Dean Elgar's LBW was overturned: Erasmus - that's impossible. Ashwin - you should find better ways to win, Supersport. Kohli - Focus on your team as well. Trying to catch people all the time. KL - whole country playing against XI guys. #SAvsIND pic.twitter.com/v9ntM86d5D — Achal (@Achal_Singh18) January 13, 2022 × Also Read: 'Focus on your team..': Kohli vents out anger on stump mic after Dean Elgar DRS controversy - WATCH Elgar had been initially ruled out by the on-field umpire but he decided to review the LBW call and managed to survive, thanks to the hawk-eye. Elgar was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah later in the day after scoring 30 runs off 96 balls to take South Africa in a comfortable position in the game. In pursuit of the target of 212 runs, South Africa were 101/2 at stumps on Day 3 and need just 111 runs to win the game with two days to play. A win will see South Africa clinch the three-match Test series 2-1.

Virat Kohli is very immature: Gautam Gambhir slams Indian skipper after stump-mic outburst in 3rd Test

Indian captain Virat Kohli was absolutely livid as he raged into the stump mic following a controversial DRS decision which saw South Africa skipper Dean Elgar survive during Day 3 of the ongoing third Test between the two sides in Cape Town. The incident happened during South Africa's second innings after the visitors were asked to chase the target of 212 runs.

During the 21st over, South Africa skipper Dean Elgar was given out LBW by the on-field umpire after being trapped plumb in front by spinner R Ashwin. However, Elgar decided to review the decision and opted for the DRS. While the replays showed the ball had hit Elgar below the knee, the hawk-eye showed that the ball was going over the stumps.

Much to Indian players' surprise and agony, the on-field umpire's decision was overruled as Elgar was given not out by the third umpire on the basis of the hawk eye's prediction. Kohli was certainly not happy with the decision and was spotted venting out his frustration on the stump mic.

The Indian skipper took a dig at the official broadcaster of the hosts, telling them to focus on their own team and not just the opposition.&nbsp;"Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball.. and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time," Kohli was heard saying on the stump mic.

Watch video:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Reaction on Stump mic after Dean Elgar's LBW was overturned: 
 
Erasmus - that's impossible. 
 
Ashwin - you should find better ways to win, Supersport. 
 
Kohli - Focus on your team as well. Trying to catch people all the time. 
 
KL - whole country playing against XI guys. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvsIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/v9ntM86d5D">pic.twitter.com/v9ntM86d5D</a>
— Achal (@Achal_Singh18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Achal_Singh18/status/1481731476236423180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Indian batter KL Rahul and spinner Ashwin also joined Kohli in taking a dig at the host broadcaster.&nbsp;"Whole country playing against XI guys," KL Rahul can be heard saying on the stump mic while Ashwin said - "you should find better ways to win."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-become-first-ever-batting-line-up-to-achieve-bizarre-feat-in-purest-format-444520">Virat Kohli-led India become first-ever batting line-up to achieve bizarre feat in purest format</a>

Rishabh Pant's unbeaten century was the only bright spot for India on an otherwise disappointing Day 3 as the visitors were bundled out for 198 runs in their second innings. South Africa, on the other hand got off to a good start in their second innings and ended Day 3 at 101/2. The hosts are now just 111 runs away from winning the third Test and claiming the series 2-1.

Indian captain Virat Kohli was absolutely livid as he raged into the stump mic following a controversial DRS decision which saw South Africa skipper Dean Elgar survive during Day 3 of the ongoing third Test between the two sides in Cape Town.

Indian captain Virat Kohli was absolutely livid as he raged into the stump mic following a controversial DRS decision which saw South Africa skipper Dean Elgar survive during Day 3 of the ongoing third Test between the two sides in Cape Town. The incident happened during South Africa's second innings after the visitors were asked to chase the target of 212 runs. During the 21st over, South Africa skipper Dean Elgar was given out LBW by the on-field umpire after being trapped plumb in front by spinner R Ashwin. However, Elgar decided to review the decision and opted for the DRS. While the replays showed the ball had hit Elgar below the knee, the hawk-eye showed that the ball was going over the stumps. Much to Indian players' surprise and agony, the on-field umpire's decision was overruled as Elgar was given not out by the third umpire on the basis of the hawk eye's prediction. Kohli was certainly not happy with the decision and was spotted venting out his frustration on the stump mic. The Indian skipper took a dig at the official broadcaster of the hosts, telling them to focus on their own team and not just the opposition. "Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball.. and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time," Kohli was heard saying on the stump mic. Watch video: Reaction on Stump mic after Dean Elgar's LBW was overturned: Erasmus - that's impossible. Ashwin - you should find better ways to win, Supersport. Kohli - Focus on your team as well. Trying to catch people all the time. KL - whole country playing against XI guys. #SAvsIND pic.twitter.com/v9ntM86d5D — Achal (@Achal_Singh18) January 13, 2022 × Indian batter KL Rahul and spinner Ashwin also joined Kohli in taking a dig at the host broadcaster. "Whole country playing against XI guys," KL Rahul can be heard saying on the stump mic while Ashwin said - "you should find better ways to win." Also Read: Virat Kohli-led India become first-ever batting line-up to achieve bizarre feat in purest format Rishabh Pant's unbeaten century was the only bright spot for India on an otherwise disappointing Day 3 as the visitors were bundled out for 198 runs in their second innings. South Africa, on the other hand got off to a good start in their second innings and ended Day 3 at 101/2. The hosts are now just 111 runs away from winning the third Test and claiming the series 2-1.

'Focus on your team..': Virat Kohli vents out anger on stump mic after Dean Elgar DRS controversy - WATCH

Day 3 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa commenced with the Virat Kohli-led Indian team 57-2, with an overall lead of 70 runs. Kohli &amp; Co. needed few good partnerships to take the lead beyond the 200-run mark as the visitors aimed to setup anything over 250 as target for the Proteas.&nbsp;

However, India's day started on a forgettable note, on Thursday (January 13),&nbsp;with Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane falling soon. Nonetheless, Captain Kohli was joined by keeper-batsman Rishabh Pant in the middle as the duo stitched a vital 94-run stand for the fifth-wicket to take India's score forward. While Kohli was watchful and kept on guiding the youngster at the other end, the 24-year-old Pant continued to add runs after his skipper's departure and went onto slam his fourth ton in the purest format of the game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-technical-faults-will-get-more-exposed-in-overseas-conditions-agarkar-opines-on-indian-batter-444437">He has technical faults, will get more exposed in overseas conditions: Agarkar opines on Indian batter</a>

With an unbeaten 100-run knock, Pant entered the record books among keeper-batters. The left-hander is the first Asian keeper-batsman to score a hundred in South Africa. He is also the first Indian keeper to score a ton in South Africa, England and Australia. In addition, the 24-year-old became only the second Indian keeper overall to score a triple-figure knock versus the Proteas (first in SA), after MS Dhoni. Also, Pant has most hundreds among Asian keeper-batters in SENA countries (3). Pakistan's former cricketer Moin Khan comes second in the list (2).

INTERESTING STAT FOLLOWING INDIA's SECOND INNINGS

This became the first instance in cricket history that all of Indian batters (20 wickets) were caught out in both innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-inspires-indian-dugout-to-relentlessly-cheer-for-pacers-on-day-2-of-3rd-test-444404">WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test</a>

Courtesy Pant's 100, India were bundled out for 198 in 67.3 overs in their second innings of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town on Thursday. Elgar &amp; Co. need 212 runs to win the match and attain a memorable series triumph against the No. 1 ranked Indian team.

On the other hand, Kohli &amp; Co. are still in contention to win their maiden Test series in the rainbow nation with a tricky total to defend.

Day 3 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa commenced with the Virat Kohli-led Indian team 57-2, with an overall lead of 70 runs. Kohli & Co.

Day 3 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa commenced with the Virat Kohli-led Indian team 57-2, with an overall lead of 70 runs. Kohli & Co. needed few good partnerships to take the lead beyond the 200-run mark as the visitors aimed to setup anything over 250 as target for the Proteas. However, India's day started on a forgettable note, on Thursday (January 13), with Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane falling soon. Nonetheless, Captain Kohli was joined by keeper-batsman Rishabh Pant in the middle as the duo stitched a vital 94-run stand for the fifth-wicket to take India's score forward. While Kohli was watchful and kept on guiding the youngster at the other end, the 24-year-old Pant continued to add runs after his skipper's departure and went onto slam his fourth ton in the purest format of the game. ALSO READ | He has technical faults, will get more exposed in overseas conditions: Agarkar opines on Indian batter With an unbeaten 100-run knock, Pant entered the record books among keeper-batters. The left-hander is the first Asian keeper-batsman to score a hundred in South Africa. He is also the first Indian keeper to score a ton in South Africa, England and Australia. In addition, the 24-year-old became only the second Indian keeper overall to score a triple-figure knock versus the Proteas (first in SA), after MS Dhoni. Also, Pant has most hundreds among Asian keeper-batters in SENA countries (3). Pakistan's former cricketer Moin Khan comes second in the list (2). INTERESTING STAT FOLLOWING INDIA's SECOND INNINGS This became the first instance in cricket history that all of Indian batters (20 wickets) were caught out in both innings. ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test Courtesy Pant's 100, India were bundled out for 198 in 67.3 overs in their second innings of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town on Thursday. Elgar & Co. need 212 runs to win the match and attain a memorable series triumph against the No. 1 ranked Indian team. On the other hand, Kohli & Co. are still in contention to win their maiden Test series in the rainbow nation with a tricky total to defend.

India vs SA, 3rd Test: Rishabh Pant enters record books with sensational ton on Day 3 in Cape Town

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of&nbsp;9, 17, 3, and 7.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-inspires-indian-dugout-to-relentlessly-cheer-for-pacers-on-day-2-of-3rd-test-444404">WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test</a>

Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18,&nbsp;"He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions."

"He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned.

Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-keegan-petersen-takes-a-one-handed-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-3-in-cape-town-444377">WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town</a>

After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which&nbsp;is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things&nbsp;in the red-ball format.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go. While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of 9, 17, 3, and 7. ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18, "He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions." "He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned. Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation. ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things in the red-ball format.

He has technical faults, will get more exposed in overseas conditions: Agarkar opines on Indian batter

Team India and South Africa have been involved in a humdinger of a three-match Test series in the rainbow nation. After India won the series opener in Centurion, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas bounced back in style to win the second and penultimate Test and level the series 1-1.

The series decider is interestingly poised with both sides fighting it hard at Newlands, Cape Town. On Wednesday (January 12), Virat Kohli-led Indian team had a tough ask to prevent SA from running ahead in the contest after being bundled out for 223 in the first innings on Day 1. When Day 2 kicked off, SA were 13-1 and soon reduced to 45-3 before Keegan Petersen-Rassie van der Dussen's fourth-wicket stand flourished for the home side.

After India got rid of van der Dussen, Petersen and Temba Bavuma joined forces and took the innings forward. Against the run of play, Mohammed Shami got rid of Bavuma as it led to an opening for India to stop SA from taking a vital first-innings lead. After India bounced back with two key wickets, Captain Kohli inspired the Indian dressing room to go all-out and cheer for the bowlers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-gavaskar-shares-how-ravi-shastri-inspired-speedster-md-shamis-revival-in-test-cricket-in-2018-444390">Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018</a>

“Taali maarte raho (keep clapping)”, were the wordings from Virat Kohli.&nbsp;Here's the video:

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Kohli celebrates the wickets.. looks towards his team dug out and shouts 'Keep Clapping Boys.. Keep Clapping' and this follows.. 
 
This guy just creates an amazing atmosphere in the match.. <a href="https://t.co/ens77zqg3M">pic.twitter.com/ens77zqg3M</a>
— Kanav Bali🏏 (@Concussion__Sub) <a href="https://twitter.com/Concussion__Sub/status/1481247167633235970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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After Day 2, Jasprit Bumrah, speaking at a press conference, also confirmed that the fast bowlers always have Kohli's back.

"I made my Test debut under him. It's always wonderful that he is there to back us. He always gives lot of motivation to all the bowlers. He brings a lot of energy to the side. It's always good to play under him," Bumrah told on Wednesday.

"It’s special that I started my journey over here and came back here and played a Test match and picked up a 5-wicket haul. Personal performances are good, but when you make an impact and the team wins, that gives you more satisfaction," he added.

At present, India will be looking to post anything over 250 to challenge Elgar &amp; Co. in the final innings and win their maiden Test series on South African soil.

Team India and South Africa have been involved in a humdinger of a three-match Test series in the rainbow nation. After India won the series opener in Centurion, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas bounced back in style to win the second and penultimate Test and level the series 1-1.

Team India and South Africa have been involved in a humdinger of a three-match Test series in the rainbow nation. After India won the series opener in Centurion, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas bounced back in style to win the second and penultimate Test and level the series 1-1. The series decider is interestingly poised with both sides fighting it hard at Newlands, Cape Town. On Wednesday (January 12), Virat Kohli-led Indian team had a tough ask to prevent SA from running ahead in the contest after being bundled out for 223 in the first innings on Day 1. When Day 2 kicked off, SA were 13-1 and soon reduced to 45-3 before Keegan Petersen-Rassie van der Dussen's fourth-wicket stand flourished for the home side. After India got rid of van der Dussen, Petersen and Temba Bavuma joined forces and took the innings forward. Against the run of play, Mohammed Shami got rid of Bavuma as it led to an opening for India to stop SA from taking a vital first-innings lead. After India bounced back with two key wickets, Captain Kohli inspired the Indian dressing room to go all-out and cheer for the bowlers. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018 “Taali maarte raho (keep clapping)”, were the wordings from Virat Kohli. Here's the video: Kohli celebrates the wickets.. looks towards his team dug out and shouts 'Keep Clapping Boys.. Keep Clapping' and this follows.. This guy just creates an amazing atmosphere in the match.. pic.twitter.com/ens77zqg3M — Kanav Bali🏏 (@Concussion__Sub) January 12, 2022 × ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town After Day 2, Jasprit Bumrah, speaking at a press conference, also confirmed that the fast bowlers always have Kohli's back. "I made my Test debut under him. It's always wonderful that he is there to back us. He always gives lot of motivation to all the bowlers. He brings a lot of energy to the side. It's always good to play under him," Bumrah told on Wednesday. "It’s special that I started my journey over here and came back here and played a Test match and picked up a 5-wicket haul. Personal performances are good, but when you make an impact and the team wins, that gives you more satisfaction," he added. At present, India will be looking to post anything over 250 to challenge Elgar & Co. in the final innings and win their maiden Test series on South African soil.

WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead. At stumps, India were 57-2, with an overall lead of 70.

In the opening over of the third day's play, on Thursday (January 13), Dean Elgar-led Proteas were off to a brilliant start. Having a leg-slip for Cheteshwar Pujara, Marco Jansen dropped it short as Pujara feathered it down&nbsp;before Petersen produced a blinder to take a one-handed stunner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-cape-town-test-kohli-achieves-unique-ton-joins-stalwarts-tendulkar-dravid-in-elite-list-444195">India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list</a>

The video of the dismissal was shared by Cricket South Africa's (CSA) official Twitter handle. The caption read, "Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day."

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Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreedomTestSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreedomTestSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BePartOfIt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BePartOfIt</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Betway_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Betway_India</a> <a href="https://t.co/zqcAtMahSi">pic.twitter.com/zqcAtMahSi</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

After Pujara's dismissal, India also lost former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane for cheap. The veteran batter's forgettable run continued as he fell for a 9-ball 1. Following the dismissals of Pujara and Rahane, India have made progress with Captain Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's unbroken fifty-plus stand for the fifth-wicket before lunch being taken in the middle on Day 3.

At lunch on Day 3, India are 130-4 (lead by 143) with Rishabh Pant batting on 51 and Kohli unbeaten on 28.

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead.

India and South Africa's third and final Test is moving ahead at a rapid pace. After managing only 223 in the first innings, Virat Kohli-led Indian team staged a stunning recovery on Day 2, on Wednesday (January 12), to dismiss SA for 210 and take a slender 13-run lead. At stumps, India were 57-2, with an overall lead of 70. In the opening over of the third day's play, on Thursday (January 13), Dean Elgar-led Proteas were off to a brilliant start. Having a leg-slip for Cheteshwar Pujara, Marco Jansen dropped it short as Pujara feathered it down before Petersen produced a blinder to take a one-handed stunner. ALSO READ | India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list The video of the dismissal was shared by Cricket South Africa's (CSA) official Twitter handle. The caption read, "Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day." Keegan Petersen with a magnificent catch on the second ball of the day😍 #SAvIND #FreedomTestSeries #BePartOfIt | @Betway_India pic.twitter.com/zqcAtMahSi — Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) January 13, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him After Pujara's dismissal, India also lost former vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane for cheap. The veteran batter's forgettable run continued as he fell for a 9-ball 1. Following the dismissals of Pujara and Rahane, India have made progress with Captain Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's unbroken fifty-plus stand for the fifth-wicket before lunch being taken in the middle on Day 3. At lunch on Day 3, India are 130-4 (lead by 143) with Rishabh Pant batting on 51 and Kohli unbeaten on 28.

WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town

AB de Villiers remains a big name in world cricket. Having announced a sudden retirement from international cricket in early 2018, with 8765, 9577 and 1,672 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively, the former Proteas captain made the headlines as it was widely speculated that he will make a comeback at the highest level for the 2021 T20 World Cup. However, all such speculations were finally put to rest by the man himself in early last year.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the right-handed batter ABD continued to make headlines by playing competitive cricket before announcing his retirement from all forms of the game post IPL 2021. In a series of tweets, de Villiers wrote, "It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket. Ever since the back yard matches with my older brothers, I have played the game with pure enjoyment and unbridled enthusiasm. Now, at the age of 37, that flame no longer burns so brightly.

"That’s the reality I must accept - and, even if it may seem sudden, that is why I am making this announcement today. I’ve had my time. Cricket has been exceptionally kind to me," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/certainly-an-option-aussie-speedster-mitchel-starc-willing-to-put-his-name-for-ipl-2022-mega-auction-444142">'Certainly an option' - Aussie speedster Mitchel Starc willing to put his name for IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

Recently, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) recruit ABD opened up on his retirement decision and revealed that IPL 2021 being held in two halves affected his 'enjoyment of cricket'. Speaking to TimesLive, de Villiers opined, "Cricketing wise, it has been coming for quite some time, it's always been about enjoyment for me. And the minute where I felt the difficulty of travelling and being there at the IPL for two and half to three months a year, specifically with this one that was spilt into two, bubbles and this and that made things very complicated with regards to cricket and the enjoyment thereof."

"I found myself on the park where scoring runs and doing well for the team didn't really match with everything that goes with it anymore and that is where the balance started leading towards hanging my gloves up. I have never been the guy who is going to push every single bit of energy of my ability and my cricketing skill, I have always played for the enjoyment of the game. And the minute that sort of started going down, I knew it was time for me to move on," he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-in-bengaluru-as-dates-confirmed-after-governing-council-meeting-443975">IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru as dates confirmed after governing council meeting</a>

For the unversed, IPL 14 was the first-ever season to be played in two parts. The first leg was indefinitely postponed midway due to the second wave of Covid-19 in India. Hence, the second and final leg was hosted in the UAE in late 2021. De Villiers ended his IPL career by amassing 5,162 runs -- sixth-most overall -- with 40 half-centuries and three centuries at a whopping strike-rate of 151.68.

AB de Villiers remains a big name in world cricket. Having announced a sudden retirement from international cricket in early 2018, with 8765, 9577 and 1,672 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively, the former Proteas captain made the headlines as it was widely speculated that he will make a comeback at the highest level for the 2021 T20 World Cup.

AB de Villiers remains a big name in world cricket. Having announced a sudden retirement from international cricket in early 2018, with 8765, 9577 and 1,672 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively, the former Proteas captain made the headlines as it was widely speculated that he will make a comeback at the highest level for the 2021 T20 World Cup. However, all such speculations were finally put to rest by the man himself in early last year. Nonetheless, the right-handed batter ABD continued to make headlines by playing competitive cricket before announcing his retirement from all forms of the game post IPL 2021. In a series of tweets, de Villiers wrote, "It has been an incredible journey, but I have decided to retire from all cricket. Ever since the back yard matches with my older brothers, I have played the game with pure enjoyment and unbridled enthusiasm. Now, at the age of 37, that flame no longer burns so brightly. "That’s the reality I must accept - and, even if it may seem sudden, that is why I am making this announcement today. I’ve had my time. Cricket has been exceptionally kind to me," he added. ALSO READ | 'Certainly an option' - Aussie speedster Mitchel Starc willing to put his name for IPL 2022 mega auction Recently, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) recruit ABD opened up on his retirement decision and revealed that IPL 2021 being held in two halves affected his 'enjoyment of cricket'. Speaking to TimesLive, de Villiers opined, "Cricketing wise, it has been coming for quite some time, it's always been about enjoyment for me. And the minute where I felt the difficulty of travelling and being there at the IPL for two and half to three months a year, specifically with this one that was spilt into two, bubbles and this and that made things very complicated with regards to cricket and the enjoyment thereof." "I found myself on the park where scoring runs and doing well for the team didn't really match with everything that goes with it anymore and that is where the balance started leading towards hanging my gloves up. I have never been the guy who is going to push every single bit of energy of my ability and my cricketing skill, I have always played for the enjoyment of the game. And the minute that sort of started going down, I knew it was time for me to move on," he further added. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru as dates confirmed after governing council meeting For the unversed, IPL 14 was the first-ever season to be played in two parts. The first leg was indefinitely postponed midway due to the second wave of Covid-19 in India. Hence, the second and final leg was hosted in the UAE in late 2021. De Villiers ended his IPL career by amassing 5,162 runs -- sixth-most overall -- with 40 half-centuries and three centuries at a whopping strike-rate of 151.68.

De Villiers spills the beans on retirement, says IPL 14 held in two halves affected 'enjoyment of cricket'

Day 2 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa was lived upto expectations on Wednesday (January 12). The opening day, on Tuesday,&nbsp;saw Virat Kohli-led India get dismissed for 223 before Dean Elgar-led South Africa went to stumps at 13-1. The second day's play started with Jasprit Bumrah quickly removing Aiden Markram and his 5 for 42 restricted the Proteas for 210, enabling a slender 13-run lead for the visitors.

During the course of the first two sessions, Captain Virat Kohli was on a roll with his field placements, bowling changes and catches. The 33-year-old Kohli, whose century-drought with the bat has still not ended, completed a unique ton by plucking his 100th catch with his effort to remove Temba Bavuma&nbsp;off Mohammed Shami's bowling. With this, Kohli joined an elite list spearheaded by current Team India head coach Rahul Dravid.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pics-team-india-players-celebrate-head-coach-rahul-dravids-49th-birthday-after-day-1-of-3rd-test-444162">[PICS] Team India players celebrate head coach Rahul Dravid's 49th birthday after Day 1 of 3rd Test</a>

For the unversed, Dravid has most catches among fielders in Tests (210). The other Indians in the list are VVS Laxman (135), Sachin Tendulkar (115), Sunil Gavaskar (108) and Mohammad&nbsp;Azharuddin (105). Kohli has now taken the 6th spot among Indians whereas his former Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane follows suit (with 99 catches).

The overall list also includes yesteryear superstars such as Mahela Jayawardene, Mark Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming, Graeme Smith, Alastair Cook, Jacques Kallis, etc.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

On Day 1 of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town, Kohli's gritty 79 also stood tall as India managed only 223 in the first innings. With a 13-run lead, Kohli &amp; Co. will now look to go for the kill by setting up a target in excess of 250 to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard.&nbsp;

India are on the cusp of winning their maiden Test series on South African soil as the three-match series is currently tied at 1-1.

Day 2 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa was lived upto expectations on Wednesday (January 12). The opening day, on Tuesday, saw Virat Kohli-led India get dismissed for 223 before Dean Elgar-led South Africa went to stumps at 13-1.

Day 2 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa was lived upto expectations on Wednesday (January 12). The opening day, on Tuesday, saw Virat Kohli-led India get dismissed for 223 before Dean Elgar-led South Africa went to stumps at 13-1. The second day's play started with Jasprit Bumrah quickly removing Aiden Markram and his 5 for 42 restricted the Proteas for 210, enabling a slender 13-run lead for the visitors. During the course of the first two sessions, Captain Virat Kohli was on a roll with his field placements, bowling changes and catches. The 33-year-old Kohli, whose century-drought with the bat has still not ended, completed a unique ton by plucking his 100th catch with his effort to remove Temba Bavuma off Mohammed Shami's bowling. With this, Kohli joined an elite list spearheaded by current Team India head coach Rahul Dravid. ALSO READ | [PICS] Team India players celebrate head coach Rahul Dravid's 49th birthday after Day 1 of 3rd Test For the unversed, Dravid has most catches among fielders in Tests (210). The other Indians in the list are VVS Laxman (135), Sachin Tendulkar (115), Sunil Gavaskar (108) and Mohammad Azharuddin (105). Kohli has now taken the 6th spot among Indians whereas his former Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane follows suit (with 99 catches). The overall list also includes yesteryear superstars such as Mahela Jayawardene, Mark Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming, Graeme Smith, Alastair Cook, Jacques Kallis, etc. ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him On Day 1 of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town, Kohli's gritty 79 also stood tall as India managed only 223 in the first innings. With a 13-run lead, Kohli & Co. will now look to go for the kill by setting up a target in excess of 250 to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. India are on the cusp of winning their maiden Test series on South African soil as the three-match series is currently tied at 1-1.

India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49.&nbsp;

On Dravid's birthday, Virat Kohli-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Cape Town. Riding on skipper Kohli's gritty 79, the visitors managed only a below-par 223 in the first innings before the Dean Elgar-led hosts went to stumps at 13-1, trailing the Indian team by 210 runs. While the day wasn't an ideal one for Team India, with the batters once again failing to capitalise on starts and score big, the atmosphere in the dressing room was jubilant as the national side's players celebrated Dravid's birthday in style after end of proceedings.

Pictures of Dravid cutting his birthday cake and the likes of Rishabh Pant, Cheteshwar Pujara, Umesh Yadav, batting coach Vikram Rathour, etc. being around the birthday man went viral. Pacer Mohammed Shami shared images of the celebration on his official Twitter handle.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-you-get-older-you-dont-know-what-to-feel-says-rahul-dravid-as-team-india-head-coach-turns-49-443931">As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49</a>

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Birthday wishes to our very own Head Coach Rahul Dravid 
 
Here's to many more smiles in the future <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/2VsrBTs4mJ">pic.twitter.com/2VsrBTs4mJ</a>
— Mohammad Shami (@MdShami11) <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11/status/1480959373342040073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

Ahead of the start of the third and final Test, on Tuesday, Dravid was wished by commentator&nbsp;Pommie Mbangwa on-air to which the former Indian skipper said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that."

At present, the third and final Test is interestingly poised as the Indian pacers haven't allowed SA batters to run away with the game in response to India's 223.&nbsp;At tea on Day 2, SA are 176-7, trailing India by 47 runs.

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49.

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49. On Dravid's birthday, Virat Kohli-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Cape Town. Riding on skipper Kohli's gritty 79, the visitors managed only a below-par 223 in the first innings before the Dean Elgar-led hosts went to stumps at 13-1, trailing the Indian team by 210 runs. While the day wasn't an ideal one for Team India, with the batters once again failing to capitalise on starts and score big, the atmosphere in the dressing room was jubilant as the national side's players celebrated Dravid's birthday in style after end of proceedings. Pictures of Dravid cutting his birthday cake and the likes of Rishabh Pant, Cheteshwar Pujara, Umesh Yadav, batting coach Vikram Rathour, etc. being around the birthday man went viral. Pacer Mohammed Shami shared images of the celebration on his official Twitter handle. ALSO READ | As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49 Birthday wishes to our very own Head Coach Rahul Dravid Here's to many more smiles in the future #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/2VsrBTs4mJ — Mohammad Shami (@MdShami11) January 11, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him Ahead of the start of the third and final Test, on Tuesday, Dravid was wished by commentator Pommie Mbangwa on-air to which the former Indian skipper said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that." At present, the third and final Test is interestingly poised as the Indian pacers haven't allowed SA batters to run away with the game in response to India's 223. At tea on Day 2, SA are 176-7, trailing India by 47 runs.

[PICS] Team India players celebrate head coach Rahul Dravid's 49th birthday after Day 1 of 3rd Test

Rishabh Pant has improved to a large extend, both as batter and keeper, but the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't been at his best with the willow in hand during the ongoing India-South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation. The left-hander has had scores of 8, 34, 17, 0 and 27 in the first innings of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town.

While Pant looked good in the opening day of the third and final Test, on Tuesday (January 11), the left-hander returned for 27 after stitching a vital 51-run stand for the fifth-wicket with skipper Virat Kohli (79). Nonetheless, the 24y-year-old Pant continues to receive a lot of flak for his poor shot selection in India's second essay of the second and penultimate Test, in Johannesburg.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-remembers-dhonis-advice-while-talking-about-pants-shot-selection-ahead-of-cape-town-test-443620">Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test</a>

Speaking on his&nbsp;YouTube channel, former Australia spin wizard Brad Hogg has praised Pant but also advised head coach Rahul Dravid from not having a word with the youngster. Hogg feels Pant's miseries are more of a mental thing and said, "He’s entertaining but very frustrating to watch - either making a big score or having a brain fade and getting out early which he did in the Johannesburg Test when the team really needed him to lift. Now, we know that he has a reasonable technique… he can play under pressure. He did it in Australia at the Gabba. But in South Africa, he was put under the pump. He walked out of the crease, which tells you that he is a little bit twitchy. He was receiving a few verbals, you could see there was a bit of eagerness. It wasn’t the Rishabh Pant that we know."

"Rahul Dravid has come out and said that he’s going to have a word about shot selection with him. I don’t think he needs to do that - technique or tactics. Stay away from that because we know he’s got the goods to deliver. It’s more psychological. Was he in a positive or a negative frame of mind. Did the verbals get to him? Those are the things you should be looking at. When he’s on song, I guarantee you that he’s in a different state of mind. This innings he was in a negative state of mind," the 50-year old further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-has-left-behind-his-ego-gambhir-lauds-indian-skippers-gritty-79-run-knock-on-day-1-of-3rd-test-444077">Kohli has left behind his ego: Gambhir lauds Indian skipper's gritty 79-run knock on Day 1 of 3rd Test</a>

Pant will be eager to silence his critics in India's second innings during the Cape Town Test. On Day 1 of the series decider, India opted to bat first and only managed 223. They, however, have accounted for some quick wickets in SA's first innings as the match is interestingly poised on Day 2.

Rishabh Pant has improved to a large extend, both as batter and keeper, but the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't been at his best with the willow in hand during the ongoing India-South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation.

Rishabh Pant has improved to a large extend, both as batter and keeper, but the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't been at his best with the willow in hand during the ongoing India-South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation. The left-hander has had scores of 8, 34, 17, 0 and 27 in the first innings of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town. While Pant looked good in the opening day of the third and final Test, on Tuesday (January 11), the left-hander returned for 27 after stitching a vital 51-run stand for the fifth-wicket with skipper Virat Kohli (79). Nonetheless, the 24y-year-old Pant continues to receive a lot of flak for his poor shot selection in India's second essay of the second and penultimate Test, in Johannesburg. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test Speaking on his YouTube channel, former Australia spin wizard Brad Hogg has praised Pant but also advised head coach Rahul Dravid from not having a word with the youngster. Hogg feels Pant's miseries are more of a mental thing and said, "He’s entertaining but very frustrating to watch - either making a big score or having a brain fade and getting out early which he did in the Johannesburg Test when the team really needed him to lift. Now, we know that he has a reasonable technique… he can play under pressure. He did it in Australia at the Gabba. But in South Africa, he was put under the pump. He walked out of the crease, which tells you that he is a little bit twitchy. He was receiving a few verbals, you could see there was a bit of eagerness. It wasn’t the Rishabh Pant that we know." "Rahul Dravid has come out and said that he’s going to have a word about shot selection with him. I don’t think he needs to do that - technique or tactics. Stay away from that because we know he’s got the goods to deliver. It’s more psychological. Was he in a positive or a negative frame of mind. Did the verbals get to him? Those are the things you should be looking at. When he’s on song, I guarantee you that he’s in a different state of mind. This innings he was in a negative state of mind," the 50-year old further added. ALSO READ | Kohli has left behind his ego: Gambhir lauds Indian skipper's gritty 79-run knock on Day 1 of 3rd Test Pant will be eager to silence his critics in India's second innings during the Cape Town Test. On Day 1 of the series decider, India opted to bat first and only managed 223. They, however, have accounted for some quick wickets in SA's first innings as the match is interestingly poised on Day 2.

'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him

Indian captain Virat Kohli produced a masterclass with the bat on Day 1 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). After the visitors won the toss and elected to bat first, the Indian openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal got dismissed for cheap. The onus fell on Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli before the former's dismissal saw the Test captain take full responsibility to take charge of the Indian innings.

Kohli scored his second slowest half-century in the red-ball format by leaving plenty of balls outside-off stump line whereas scored on the leg side. Though he was beaten on a number of occasions, the 33-year-old didn't get bogged down as seemed to have kept his ego aside, of going for the outside-off deliveries, to return with a gritty 79. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on Kohli for his batting performance.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cape-town-test-virat-kohli-back-in-form-but-dean-elgars-south-africa-take-honours-on-day-1-443985">Cape Town Test: Virat Kohli back in form but Dean Elgar's South Africa take honours on Day 1</a>

"Virat has said many times that when you go to England, you should leave behind your ego in India. Today, Virat Kohli left behind his ego in the kit bag and this knock reminds me of his very successful tour of England, where he got beaten many times but left a lot of deliveries outside off-stump.

"Today, in the same way, he left deliveries outside off-stump, he got beaten as well but kept his ego with himself. He did not try to dominate the bowlers on every delivery," Gambhir said on Star Sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-3rd-test-virat-kohli-surpasses-head-coach-rahul-dravid-in-elite-list-with-watchful-50-on-day-1-443953">Ind vs SA, 3rd Test: Virat Kohli surpasses head coach Rahul Dravid in elite list with watchful 50 on Day 1</a>

The former cricketer further asserted, "When you play in these conditions and against such bowlers on the first day, where there is help for the bowlers, you play in your shell at times although the South African bowlers did give him that opportunity." Along with that, his scoring areas might have been through the covers but he scored a lot of runs on his legs, which he has always done. So we saw a glimpse of the knocks he played in England."

Nonetheless, India were folded for a below-par 223 on Day 1 of the series finale in Cape Town despite Captain Kohli's 79. The likes of Rahul, Mayank, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant struggled whereas Pujara missed his half-century by 4 runs.&nbsp;

At stumps, SA are 13-1 with skipper Dean Elgar removed by Jasprit Bumrah. The visitors will, however, have to bowl very well to take a vital first-innings lead or, at least, not allow the Proteas to take a sizeable one.

Indian captain Virat Kohli produced a masterclass with the bat on Day 1 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11).

Indian captain Virat Kohli produced a masterclass with the bat on Day 1 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). After the visitors won the toss and elected to bat first, the Indian openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal got dismissed for cheap. The onus fell on Cheteshwar Pujara and Kohli before the former's dismissal saw the Test captain take full responsibility to take charge of the Indian innings. Kohli scored his second slowest half-century in the red-ball format by leaving plenty of balls outside-off stump line whereas scored on the leg side. Though he was beaten on a number of occasions, the 33-year-old didn't get bogged down as seemed to have kept his ego aside, of going for the outside-off deliveries, to return with a gritty 79. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on Kohli for his batting performance. ALSO READ | Cape Town Test: Virat Kohli back in form but Dean Elgar's South Africa take honours on Day 1 "Virat has said many times that when you go to England, you should leave behind your ego in India. Today, Virat Kohli left behind his ego in the kit bag and this knock reminds me of his very successful tour of England, where he got beaten many times but left a lot of deliveries outside off-stump. "Today, in the same way, he left deliveries outside off-stump, he got beaten as well but kept his ego with himself. He did not try to dominate the bowlers on every delivery," Gambhir said on Star Sports. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 3rd Test: Virat Kohli surpasses head coach Rahul Dravid in elite list with watchful 50 on Day 1 The former cricketer further asserted, "When you play in these conditions and against such bowlers on the first day, where there is help for the bowlers, you play in your shell at times although the South African bowlers did give him that opportunity." Along with that, his scoring areas might have been through the covers but he scored a lot of runs on his legs, which he has always done. So we saw a glimpse of the knocks he played in England." Nonetheless, India were folded for a below-par 223 on Day 1 of the series finale in Cape Town despite Captain Kohli's 79. The likes of Rahul, Mayank, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant struggled whereas Pujara missed his half-century by 4 runs. At stumps, SA are 13-1 with skipper Dean Elgar removed by Jasprit Bumrah. The visitors will, however, have to bowl very well to take a vital first-innings lead or, at least, not allow the Proteas to take a sizeable one.

Kohli has left behind his ego: Gambhir lauds Indian skipper's gritty 79-run knock on Day 1 of 3rd Test

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli is currently enduring a lean patch in international cricket as he continues to wait for his first international century since November 2019. While he hasn't scored a ton for over two years, runs have also dried up for Kohli in Test cricket.

Speaking about his rough patch, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar opined the Indian skipper looks low on self-confidence. Manjrekar said he never thought that someone like Kohli, who is known for his consistency and had set high standards for himself with his performances, will see his confidence dip.

Kohli is one of the best batters in the world at present and despite his rough patch continues to average over fifty in all three formats of the game. The Indian Test skipper might not have been at his very best of late but it won't take much time for him to regain his form once he gets going.

“Virat Kohli is a great batter. He’s certainly out of form. It’s the first time I have seen - I saw this in the IPL as well - that he’s a bit low on confidence which I thought would never happen. That’s why they say ‘never say never’. We have seen that because he hasn’t scored runs, his self-confidence has dipped a bit,” Manjrekar said on ESPN Cricinfo.

Kohli played the first Test against South Africa in Centurion where he managed 35 and 18 runs in the two innings before missing the second Test due to a back spasm. However, the Indian skipper has recovered well ahead of the third and final Test against the Proteas and will be looking to notch up a big score in the series decider.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-indias-record-in-cape-town-as-virat-kohli-co-search-for-maiden-test-series-win-in-south-africa-443691">&nbsp;A look at India's record in Cape Town as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. search for maiden Test series win in South Africa</a>

Manjrekar has backed Kohli to bounce back to form in the third Test against South Africa which gets underway in Cape Town from Tuesday (January 11). The former India batsman believes Kohli will be scoring runs consistently once he is back in touch.

“But he’s a great batter and when he’ll score runs, he’ll be back in form because he’ll keep scoring consistently. It’s completely possible that he’ll be back in form in this Test," said Manjrekar.

&nbsp;

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli is currently enduring a lean patch in international cricket as he continues to wait for his first international century since November 2019.

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli is currently enduring a lean patch in international cricket as he continues to wait for his first international century since November 2019. While he hasn't scored a ton for over two years, runs have also dried up for Kohli in Test cricket. Speaking about his rough patch, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar opined the Indian skipper looks low on self-confidence. Manjrekar said he never thought that someone like Kohli, who is known for his consistency and had set high standards for himself with his performances, will see his confidence dip. Kohli is one of the best batters in the world at present and despite his rough patch continues to average over fifty in all three formats of the game. The Indian Test skipper might not have been at his very best of late but it won't take much time for him to regain his form once he gets going. “Virat Kohli is a great batter. He’s certainly out of form. It’s the first time I have seen - I saw this in the IPL as well - that he’s a bit low on confidence which I thought would never happen. That’s why they say ‘never say never’. We have seen that because he hasn’t scored runs, his self-confidence has dipped a bit,” Manjrekar said on ESPN Cricinfo. Kohli played the first Test against South Africa in Centurion where he managed 35 and 18 runs in the two innings before missing the second Test due to a back spasm. However, the Indian skipper has recovered well ahead of the third and final Test against the Proteas and will be looking to notch up a big score in the series decider. Also Read: A look at India's record in Cape Town as Virat Kohli & Co. search for maiden Test series win in South Africa Manjrekar has backed Kohli to bounce back to form in the third Test against South Africa which gets underway in Cape Town from Tuesday (January 11). The former India batsman believes Kohli will be scoring runs consistently once he is back in touch. “But he’s a great batter and when he’ll score runs, he’ll be back in form because he’ll keep scoring consistently. It’s completely possible that he’ll be back in form in this Test," said Manjrekar.

'Never thought that would happen': Sanjay Manjrekar explains reason behind Virat Kohli's rough patch

India captain Virat Kohli played a lone hand with 79 as the tourists were bowled out for 223 on the first day of the decisive third and final test against South Africa at Newlands on Tuesday. The home side 17 for one in reply at the close.

Kohli’s form had been under the microscope as he returned from injury on Tuesday, but he compiled his highest score in 26 innings since he got a hundred against Bangladesh in Nov. 2019 to lead India to a respectable first innings score.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-3rd-test-virat-kohli-surpasses-head-coach-rahul-dravid-in-elite-list-with-watchful-50-on-day-1-443953">Ind vs SA, 3rd Test: Virat Kohli surpasses head coach Rahul Dravid in elite list with watchful 50 on Day 1</a>

Aiden Markram (eight not out) and nightwatchman Keshav Maharaj (six not out) will look to make inroads into South Africa`s deficit on the second morning. India claimed the key scalp of in-from South African captain Dean Elgar (3) 15 minutes before the close as he edged seamer Jasprit Bumrah to Cheteshwar Pujara at first slip. 
There would be no repeat of Elgar’s heroic 96 not out that steered the home side to victory in the second test in Johannesburg.

The teams are level at 1-1 with the visitors hoping for a first ever series win in South Africa, and having won the toss and elected to bat, maybe should have made more of their good fortune. Kohli looked comfortable at the wicket for the most part, but found little support other than a fighting 43 from Pujara. South Africa bowled in good areas and will be pleased by their efforts, seamer Kagiso Rabada the pick of the bowlers with 4-73.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-you-get-older-you-dont-know-what-to-feel-says-rahul-dravid-as-team-india-head-coach-turns-49-443931">As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49</a>

He claimed the wicket of Kohli as his nagging line outside off-stump induced the edge from the India skipper, who was caught by wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, ending his 201 ball stay at the crease. Left-arm seamer Marco Jansen, 21, continued his fine form with 3-55 as he bowled without much luck, but confirmed his potential as a leader of the South African attack in the future. There was also a first wicket in the series for spinner Maharaj with the pitch likely to be the most helpful of the lot to the slow bowlers later in the Test.

That will interest India’s Ravichandran Ashwin, who has largely been a passenger to this point having bowled only 43.4 overs so far.

India captain Virat Kohli played a lone hand with 79 as the tourists were bowled out for 223 on the first day of the decisive third and final test against South Africa at Newlands on Tuesday.

India captain Virat Kohli played a lone hand with 79 as the tourists were bowled out for 223 on the first day of the decisive third and final test against South Africa at Newlands on Tuesday. The home side 17 for one in reply at the close. Kohli’s form had been under the microscope as he returned from injury on Tuesday, but he compiled his highest score in 26 innings since he got a hundred against Bangladesh in Nov. 2019 to lead India to a respectable first innings score. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 3rd Test: Virat Kohli surpasses head coach Rahul Dravid in elite list with watchful 50 on Day 1 Aiden Markram (eight not out) and nightwatchman Keshav Maharaj (six not out) will look to make inroads into South Africa`s deficit on the second morning. India claimed the key scalp of in-from South African captain Dean Elgar (3) 15 minutes before the close as he edged seamer Jasprit Bumrah to Cheteshwar Pujara at first slip. There would be no repeat of Elgar’s heroic 96 not out that steered the home side to victory in the second test in Johannesburg. The teams are level at 1-1 with the visitors hoping for a first ever series win in South Africa, and having won the toss and elected to bat, maybe should have made more of their good fortune. Kohli looked comfortable at the wicket for the most part, but found little support other than a fighting 43 from Pujara. South Africa bowled in good areas and will be pleased by their efforts, seamer Kagiso Rabada the pick of the bowlers with 4-73. ALSO READ | As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49 He claimed the wicket of Kohli as his nagging line outside off-stump induced the edge from the India skipper, who was caught by wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, ending his 201 ball stay at the crease. Left-arm seamer Marco Jansen, 21, continued his fine form with 3-55 as he bowled without much luck, but confirmed his potential as a leader of the South African attack in the future. There was also a first wicket in the series for spinner Maharaj with the pitch likely to be the most helpful of the lot to the slow bowlers later in the Test. That will interest India’s Ravichandran Ashwin, who has largely been a passenger to this point having bowled only 43.4 overs so far.

Cape Town Test: Virat Kohli back in form but Dean Elgar's South Africa take honours on Day 1

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). After winning the toss, India were 31 for no loss before both their openers were removed in a flash.&nbsp;

Thus, the onus fell on skipper Virat Kohli. Kohli, who is playing his 99th Test, returned to the playing XI after missing the second and penultimate Test due to upper back spasm. Playing on Rahul Dravid and his daughter Vamika's birthday, the 33-year-old Kohli looked in his elements and carried the innings single-handedly by contributing with a watchful 79. The right-hander looked set to finally break his century-drought, since late 2019, before he ran out of partners and edged one to the wicketkeeper off Kagiso Rabada in the final session to walk out for 79.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-you-get-older-you-dont-know-what-to-feel-says-rahul-dravid-as-team-india-head-coach-turns-49-443931">As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49</a>

Nonetheless, Kohli surpassed his head coach Dravid in an elite list courtesy his second-slowest fifty in the red-ball format. By virtue of his knock, the Indian Test captain moved past Dravid (624 runs) to become India's second-highest run-getter&nbsp;on South African soil in whites. For the unversed, Kohli is now only behind his idol Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar amassed a whopping&nbsp;1161 runs against the Proteas in South Africa in the format, from 1992-2011.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-3rd-test-rahul-mayank-move-past-sehwag-gambhir-to-attain-unique-feat-among-indian-openers-443856">India vs SA, 3rd Test: Rahul, Mayank move past Sehwag-Gambhir to attain unique feat among Indian openers</a>

Riding on Kohli's 79 and Cheteshwar Pujara's 46, India folded for a moderate 223 in the first innings of the final Test at Cape Town. The Jasprit Bumrah-starrer bowling attack will have to be at their very best to dismiss SA in a flash and ensure India take a vital first-innings lead.&nbsp;

The series is tied at 1-1 after India won the series opener, in Centurion, before Dean Elgar-led hosts levelled the series in the penultimate Test in Johannesburg.

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). After winning the toss, India were 31 for no loss before both their openers were removed in a flash.

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). After winning the toss, India were 31 for no loss before both their openers were removed in a flash. Thus, the onus fell on skipper Virat Kohli. Kohli, who is playing his 99th Test, returned to the playing XI after missing the second and penultimate Test due to upper back spasm. Playing on Rahul Dravid and his daughter Vamika's birthday, the 33-year-old Kohli looked in his elements and carried the innings single-handedly by contributing with a watchful 79. The right-hander looked set to finally break his century-drought, since late 2019, before he ran out of partners and edged one to the wicketkeeper off Kagiso Rabada in the final session to walk out for 79. ALSO READ | As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49 Nonetheless, Kohli surpassed his head coach Dravid in an elite list courtesy his second-slowest fifty in the red-ball format. By virtue of his knock, the Indian Test captain moved past Dravid (624 runs) to become India's second-highest run-getter on South African soil in whites. For the unversed, Kohli is now only behind his idol Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar amassed a whopping 1161 runs against the Proteas in South Africa in the format, from 1992-2011. ALSO READ | India vs SA, 3rd Test: Rahul, Mayank move past Sehwag-Gambhir to attain unique feat among Indian openers Riding on Kohli's 79 and Cheteshwar Pujara's 46, India folded for a moderate 223 in the first innings of the final Test at Cape Town. The Jasprit Bumrah-starrer bowling attack will have to be at their very best to dismiss SA in a flash and ensure India take a vital first-innings lead. The series is tied at 1-1 after India won the series opener, in Centurion, before Dean Elgar-led hosts levelled the series in the penultimate Test in Johannesburg.

Ind vs SA, 3rd Test: Virat Kohli surpasses head coach Rahul Dravid in elite list with watchful 50 on Day 1

On Tuesday (January 11), Team India head coach and former captain Rahul Dravid turned 49. The Wall, as he is famously known, is celebrating his birthday with the national cricket team as India have locked horns with South Africa for the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town.

Ahead of the commencement of the third and final Test, Dravid had a brief conversation with commentator&nbsp;Pommie Mbangwa on-air, where the former thanked one and all for the birthday wishes. However, he made an honest confession when it comes to the wishes on his special day.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/major-setback-for-kl-rahul-led-team-india-as-star-player-tests-positive-ahead-of-sa-odis-443914">Major setback for KL Rahul-led Team India as star player tests positive ahead of SA ODIs</a>

Dravid said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-3rd-test-rahul-mayank-move-past-sehwag-gambhir-to-attain-unique-feat-among-indian-openers-443856">India vs SA, 3rd Test: Rahul, Mayank move past Sehwag-Gambhir to attain unique feat among Indian openers</a>

Ahead of the all-important Test series finale, coach Dravid also revealed that the Virat Kohli-led Indian side doesn't need to be motivated as they are eager to go for the kill and achieve their maiden Test series win in SA. "At this level, you don’t motivate people to play the game. If I am having to do that before a big Test match with the opportunity to create history, then we have got the wrong people,” Dravid added.

For the unversed, India won the three-match Test series opener, in Centurion, before losing the second and penultimate Test at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. They need to win their first Test in Cape Town to make history and return with their maiden Test series triumph in the rainbow nation.

On Tuesday (January 11), Team India head coach and former captain Rahul Dravid turned 49. The Wall, as he is famously known, is celebrating his birthday with the national cricket team as India have locked horns with South Africa for the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town.

On Tuesday (January 11), Team India head coach and former captain Rahul Dravid turned 49. The Wall, as he is famously known, is celebrating his birthday with the national cricket team as India have locked horns with South Africa for the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. Ahead of the commencement of the third and final Test, Dravid had a brief conversation with commentator Pommie Mbangwa on-air, where the former thanked one and all for the birthday wishes. However, he made an honest confession when it comes to the wishes on his special day. ALSO READ | Major setback for KL Rahul-led Team India as star player tests positive ahead of SA ODIs Dravid said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that." ALSO READ | India vs SA, 3rd Test: Rahul, Mayank move past Sehwag-Gambhir to attain unique feat among Indian openers Ahead of the all-important Test series finale, coach Dravid also revealed that the Virat Kohli-led Indian side doesn't need to be motivated as they are eager to go for the kill and achieve their maiden Test series win in SA. "At this level, you don’t motivate people to play the game. If I am having to do that before a big Test match with the opportunity to create history, then we have got the wrong people,” Dravid added. For the unversed, India won the three-match Test series opener, in Centurion, before losing the second and penultimate Test at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. They need to win their first Test in Cape Town to make history and return with their maiden Test series triumph in the rainbow nation.

As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at The Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the series decider, captain Virat Kohli announced himself to be fully fit after missing the second and penultimate contest where KL Rahul &amp; Co. lost by 8 wickets at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.&nbsp;

With the series interestingly poised at 1-1, India have a strong chance to win their first-ever series on South African soil. After the highs in Australia and England recently, Kohli &amp; Co. will be upbeat and aim to go for the kill versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa. However, the visitors will still have to address few issues in order to attain a memorable Test series win in the rainbow nation. While the under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane shared a vital 111-run stand, for the third-wicket, in India's second essay in the J'burg Test and returned with a fifty each, the two have been a pale shadow of themselves in the recent years with a big knock evading them. Hence, the 33-year-old Kohli spoke about them at length in the pre-match press-conference and backed the pair.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-indias-record-in-cape-town-as-virat-kohli-co-search-for-maiden-test-series-win-in-south-africa-443691">A look at India's record in Cape Town as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. search for maiden Test series win in South Africa</a>

Kohli believes that while there has been a lot of talk against Rahane-Pujara, the transition can happen naturally and the team management is pleased with the duo's partnership in J'burg. He told, "I cannot pinpoint when we'll have a transition in the team. The way Pujara and Ajinkya batted in the last Test that experience is priceless for us. I feel transitions do happen but they happen naturally, you can't force them."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-remembers-dhonis-advice-while-talking-about-pants-shot-selection-ahead-of-cape-town-test-443620">Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test</a>

On his own century-drought, Kohli said while replying to an ANI query, "This is not the first time that people have talked about my form, it has happened a few times in my career. England in 2014 was one of those phases. I do not kind of look at myself from the lens the outside world looks at me with. The standards have been set by me myself, they are not an occurrence from the outside world, and more than anyone else, I take a lot of pride in doing the best for the team and wanting to perform for the team regularly."

It is interesting to note that India's middle-order, comprising Pujara, Kohli and Rahane, have been through a rough patch of late. While Pujara's last ton came in early 2019, Kohli's last Test triple-figure knock came later the same year (also his last international hundred). Rahane made an impressive ton in the MCG Test, in late 2020, but hasn't been able to replicate the same since then.&nbsp;

India will hope the trio steps up and performs in the series deciding clash at Newlands, Cape Town.

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at The Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the series decider, captain Virat Kohli announced himself to be fully fit after missing the second and penultimate contest where KL Rahul & Co.

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other in the third and final Test at The Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the series decider, captain Virat Kohli announced himself to be fully fit after missing the second and penultimate contest where KL Rahul & Co. lost by 8 wickets at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. With the series interestingly poised at 1-1, India have a strong chance to win their first-ever series on South African soil. After the highs in Australia and England recently, Kohli & Co. will be upbeat and aim to go for the kill versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa. However, the visitors will still have to address few issues in order to attain a memorable Test series win in the rainbow nation. While the under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane shared a vital 111-run stand, for the third-wicket, in India's second essay in the J'burg Test and returned with a fifty each, the two have been a pale shadow of themselves in the recent years with a big knock evading them. Hence, the 33-year-old Kohli spoke about them at length in the pre-match press-conference and backed the pair. ALSO READ | A look at India's record in Cape Town as Virat Kohli & Co. search for maiden Test series win in South Africa Kohli believes that while there has been a lot of talk against Rahane-Pujara, the transition can happen naturally and the team management is pleased with the duo's partnership in J'burg. He told, "I cannot pinpoint when we'll have a transition in the team. The way Pujara and Ajinkya batted in the last Test that experience is priceless for us. I feel transitions do happen but they happen naturally, you can't force them." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test On his own century-drought, Kohli said while replying to an ANI query, "This is not the first time that people have talked about my form, it has happened a few times in my career. England in 2014 was one of those phases. I do not kind of look at myself from the lens the outside world looks at me with. The standards have been set by me myself, they are not an occurrence from the outside world, and more than anyone else, I take a lot of pride in doing the best for the team and wanting to perform for the team regularly." It is interesting to note that India's middle-order, comprising Pujara, Kohli and Rahane, have been through a rough patch of late. While Pujara's last ton came in early 2019, Kohli's last Test triple-figure knock came later the same year (also his last international hundred). Rahane made an impressive ton in the MCG Test, in late 2020, but hasn't been able to replicate the same since then. India will hope the trio steps up and performs in the series deciding clash at Newlands, Cape Town.

Way they batted in J'burg is priceless: Virat Kohli backs under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane

Taking on South Africa in Cape Town for the third Test, India will be seeking a maiden triumph against the Proteas in the purest format in their own backyard. The Test series being played between India and South Africa has now reached a turning point as both the teams are currently tied at 1-1 and the series will be decided at Newlands, Cape Town.

India's possible playing XI for Cape Town Test:

Virat Kohli, being injured with a back spasm in the second Test at the Wanderers in Johannesburg, is now set to return to the playing XI for the series decider. He has been seen practising in the nets.&nbsp;

After Hanuma Vihari's fine knock in challenging conditions in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test, it will be interesting to see whether the team management continues to include both Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI along with&nbsp;Kohli; overlooking Vihari.&nbsp;

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-remembers-dhonis-advice-while-talking-about-pants-shot-selection-ahead-of-cape-town-test-443620">Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test</a>

With Mohammed Siraj confirmed to miss out, due to a hamstring injury, his place will be taken by either Ishant Sharma or Umesh Yadav. The rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged.

Find out what you need to know about the match- date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is South Africa vs India 3rd Test match taking place?

The 3rd Test match between South Africa and India will take place on January 11, 2022.

Where is South Africa vs India 3rd Test match taking place?

The third Test between South Africa and India will be played at Newlands, Cape Town.&nbsp;

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-criticism-over-lean-patch-dont-need-to-prove-anything-to-anyone-443589">Virat Kohli responds to criticism over lean patch: 'Don't need to prove anything to anyone'</a>

At what time South Africa vs India 3rd Test match taking place?

South Africa vs India 3rd Test match will kick off at 11:30 am GMT (10:30 am local time). The IST time is 2:00 pm.

How to watch South Africa vs India 3rd Test match live on TV?

The South Africa vs India 3rd Test match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network.&nbsp;

How to watch South Africa vs India 3rd Test match live streaming?

The live streaming of South Africa vs India 3rd Test match will be available on Hotstar.

Taking on South Africa in Cape Town for the third Test, India will be seeking a maiden triumph against the Proteas in the purest format in their own backyard. The Test series being played between India and South Africa has now reached a turning point as both the teams are currently tied at 1-1 and the series will be decided at Newlands, Cape Town.

Taking on South Africa in Cape Town for the third Test, India will be seeking a maiden triumph against the Proteas in the purest format in their own backyard. The Test series being played between India and South Africa has now reached a turning point as both the teams are currently tied at 1-1 and the series will be decided at Newlands, Cape Town. India's possible playing XI for Cape Town Test: Virat Kohli, being injured with a back spasm in the second Test at the Wanderers in Johannesburg, is now set to return to the playing XI for the series decider. He has been seen practising in the nets. After Hanuma Vihari's fine knock in challenging conditions in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test, it will be interesting to see whether the team management continues to include both Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI along with Kohli; overlooking Vihari. Read Also | Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test With Mohammed Siraj confirmed to miss out, due to a hamstring injury, his place will be taken by either Ishant Sharma or Umesh Yadav. The rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged. Find out what you need to know about the match- date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is South Africa vs India 3rd Test match taking place? The 3rd Test match between South Africa and India will take place on January 11, 2022. Where is South Africa vs India 3rd Test match taking place? The third Test between South Africa and India will be played at Newlands, Cape Town. Read Also | Virat Kohli responds to criticism over lean patch: 'Don't need to prove anything to anyone' At what time South Africa vs India 3rd Test match taking place? South Africa vs India 3rd Test match will kick off at 11:30 am GMT (10:30 am local time). The IST time is 2:00 pm. How to watch South Africa vs India 3rd Test match live on TV? The South Africa vs India 3rd Test match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network. How to watch South Africa vs India 3rd Test match live streaming? The live streaming of South Africa vs India 3rd Test match will be available on Hotstar.

SAvsIND: When and where to watch South Africa vs India 3rd Test match - IST time and streaming details

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other at Newlands, Cape Town for the third and final Test starting on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the third and final Test, the 33-year-old Indian captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in a pre-match press conference.

Kohli, on Monday (January 10), opened up on India's possible team combination, on his century drought, growth of the Test team under his captaincy, transition phase, Rishabh Pant's shot selection, etc. In the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, Pant's shot selection in India's second essay was heavily criticised as the left-hander went for a big shot, off Kagiso Rabada, and threw his scalp when the visitors' lead wasn't even close to the 200-run mark.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-responds-to-criticism-over-lean-patch-dont-need-to-prove-anything-to-anyone-443589">Virat Kohli responds to criticism over lean patch: 'Don't need to prove anything to anyone'</a>

Hence, Kohli opened up on Pant's approach and recalled an important piece of advice received from his former captain MS Dhoni.

Kohli said in the presser, "We did have a conversation with Rishabh Pant during practice and when a batter plays a bad shot, he would know more than anybody if he has played the right shot according to the situation and as long as an individual accepts that, he will make progress. We have all made mistakes in our career in important situations where we have got out, due to pressure or whatever the situation was."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-eyes-twin-milestones-as-he-gears-up-for-comeback-in-3rd-test-against-south-africa-in-cape-town-443518">Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa in Cape Town</a>

Moreover, the Indian Test captain then mentioned Dhoni's advice and said, "I remember MS Dhoni once telling me that there should be a 6-7 months gap between your two mistakes. That is how you will progress in your international career. That became a part of my system. So reflecting on your mistakes is important and I know Rishabh does that and he will learn from his mistakes."&nbsp;

India will look to win the third and final Test and also register their first-ever series win on South African soil. After winning the series opener in Centurion, Kohli-less India lost the penultimate contest as the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 heading into the deciding match.

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other at Newlands, Cape Town for the third and final Test starting on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the third and final Test, the 33-year-old Indian captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in a pre-match press conference.

India and South Africa are set to lock horns with each other at Newlands, Cape Town for the third and final Test starting on Tuesday (January 11). Ahead of the third and final Test, the 33-year-old Indian captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in a pre-match press conference. Kohli, on Monday (January 10), opened up on India's possible team combination, on his century drought, growth of the Test team under his captaincy, transition phase, Rishabh Pant's shot selection, etc. In the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, Pant's shot selection in India's second essay was heavily criticised as the left-hander went for a big shot, off Kagiso Rabada, and threw his scalp when the visitors' lead wasn't even close to the 200-run mark. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli responds to criticism over lean patch: 'Don't need to prove anything to anyone' Hence, Kohli opened up on Pant's approach and recalled an important piece of advice received from his former captain MS Dhoni. Kohli said in the presser, "We did have a conversation with Rishabh Pant during practice and when a batter plays a bad shot, he would know more than anybody if he has played the right shot according to the situation and as long as an individual accepts that, he will make progress. We have all made mistakes in our career in important situations where we have got out, due to pressure or whatever the situation was." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa in Cape Town Moreover, the Indian Test captain then mentioned Dhoni's advice and said, "I remember MS Dhoni once telling me that there should be a 6-7 months gap between your two mistakes. That is how you will progress in your international career. That became a part of my system. So reflecting on your mistakes is important and I know Rishabh does that and he will learn from his mistakes." India will look to win the third and final Test and also register their first-ever series win on South African soil. After winning the series opener in Centurion, Kohli-less India lost the penultimate contest as the series is interestingly poised at 1-1 heading into the deciding match.

Virat Kohli remembers Dhoni's advice while talking about Pant's shot selection ahead of Cape Town Test

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli has responded to the criticism over his lean patch in international cricket. Kohli, who has set high standards for himself with his incredible consistency in the past, has failed to score a century for over two years in international cricket. Kohli had last scored a hundred in 2019.

He has since been looking to bring an end to his century drought and join Ricky Ponting at the second spot in the list of batters with the most centuries in international cricket. While he has failed to notch up a hundred, his average has also significantly dropped in the longest format.

Kohli has managed only 652 runs in his last 14 Test matches at an average of just over 26 which is quite below-par as per the standards of the Indian skipper. However, Kohli is not bothered by his lean patch and is aware that rough patches are part of an athlete's career.

"It is not the first time. Let's not get away from reality, it has happened a few times (lean patch)," Kohli said in the pre-match presser ahead of the third Test between India and South Africa in Cape Town.&nbsp;

"I don't look at myself from the lens that the outside world looks at me. The standards I have been compared with have been set by myself. More than anyone else I take pride in wanting to do the best for the team. In sports sometimes things don't go the way you want them to go but I realise that I have been involved in very important moments in the last year or so as a batter," the Indian skipper added.

Kohli had missed the second Test against the Proteas due to a back spasm after leading India to a thumping win in the series-opener in Centurion. The Indian skipper has recovered in time and is all set to make his comeback in the playing XI for the series-decider as India remains one win away from clinching maiden Test series win in South Africa.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-eyes-twin-milestones-as-he-gears-up-for-comeback-in-3rd-test-against-south-africa-in-cape-town-443518">Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa&nbsp;</a>

Amid the chatter over his poor form, Kohli said he is not someone who looks at numbers and doesn't need to prove himself to anybody. The Indian skipper will be hoping to revive his form and notch up a big score in the final Test against the Proteas to help India win script history on the tour.

"Eventually, those moments have been crucial. Sometimes your focal point changes, if you keep looking at yourself in terms of numbers you'll never be happy," said Kohli.

"I take a lot of pride and motivation to be in those moments and have nothing to worry about. I truly believe I don't need to prove myself to anyone. When you are in the position you are going to be judged by the outside world," he added.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli has responded to the criticism over his lean patch in international cricket. Kohli, who has set high standards for himself with his incredible consistency in the past, has failed to score a century for over two years in international cricket.

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli has responded to the criticism over his lean patch in international cricket. Kohli, who has set high standards for himself with his incredible consistency in the past, has failed to score a century for over two years in international cricket. Kohli had last scored a hundred in 2019. He has since been looking to bring an end to his century drought and join Ricky Ponting at the second spot in the list of batters with the most centuries in international cricket. While he has failed to notch up a hundred, his average has also significantly dropped in the longest format. Kohli has managed only 652 runs in his last 14 Test matches at an average of just over 26 which is quite below-par as per the standards of the Indian skipper. However, Kohli is not bothered by his lean patch and is aware that rough patches are part of an athlete's career. "It is not the first time. Let's not get away from reality, it has happened a few times (lean patch)," Kohli said in the pre-match presser ahead of the third Test between India and South Africa in Cape Town. "I don't look at myself from the lens that the outside world looks at me. The standards I have been compared with have been set by myself. More than anyone else I take pride in wanting to do the best for the team. In sports sometimes things don't go the way you want them to go but I realise that I have been involved in very important moments in the last year or so as a batter," the Indian skipper added. Kohli had missed the second Test against the Proteas due to a back spasm after leading India to a thumping win in the series-opener in Centurion. The Indian skipper has recovered in time and is all set to make his comeback in the playing XI for the series-decider as India remains one win away from clinching maiden Test series win in South Africa. Also Read: Virat Kohli eyes twin milestones as he gears up for comeback in 3rd Test against South Africa Amid the chatter over his poor form, Kohli said he is not someone who looks at numbers and doesn't need to prove himself to anybody. The Indian skipper will be hoping to revive his form and notch up a big score in the final Test against the Proteas to help India win script history on the tour. "Eventually, those moments have been crucial. Sometimes your focal point changes, if you keep looking at yourself in terms of numbers you'll never be happy," said Kohli. "I take a lot of pride and motivation to be in those moments and have nothing to worry about. I truly believe I don't need to prove myself to anyone. When you are in the position you are going to be judged by the outside world," he added.

Virat Kohli responds to criticism over lean patch: 'Don't need to prove anything to anyone'

Indian captain Virat Kohli hit the nets in Cape Town on Sunday (November 09) ahead of the start of the third and final Test match against South Africa. Kohli had missed the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg as the visitors slipped to a seven-wicket defeat. Kohli had to sit out due to a back spasm.

However, the Indian skipper seems to have recovered from the back issue as he was seen enjoying some batting practice at the Newlands on Sunday. Kohli is likely to make his comeback in the playing XI and lead the team in the third and final Test which will be a series-decider between the two teams.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a few pictures from India's training session in Cape Town ahead of the third Test where Kohli was seen focused while batting in the nets. Earlier, India head coach Rahul Dravid had said Kohli was on track for recovery and will be fine after a couple of training sessions.

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It's GO time here in Cape Town <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> all set and prepping for the series decider <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/RgPSPkNdk1">pic.twitter.com/RgPSPkNdk1</a>
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KL Rahul had led India in the second Test in Johannesburg in the absence of Virat Kohli as he made his captaincy debut in Tests for the Indian team.&nbsp;He led from the front and scored a gritty fifty to help India post 202 runs on the board in their first innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-a-masterstroke-just-show-off-ravindra-jadeja-trolls-kkr-after-ipl-franchise-takes-a-dig-at-ms-dhoni-443416">'Not a masterstroke, just show off': Ravindra Jadeja trolls KKR after IPL franchise takes a dig at MS Dhoni</a>

In reply, South Africa rode on half-centuries from Keegan Petersen and Temba Bavuma to score 229 runs and take a slight lead of 27 runs. India were skittled out for 266 runs in their second innings despite half-centuries from Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane as they managed to set up a moderate target of 240 runs for the hosts.

South Africa skipper Dean Elgar turned out to be the hero for the Proteas in their second innings as he slammed a brilliant knock of unbeaten 96 to help the host chase down the total with seven wickets to spare. With the seven-wicket win, South Africa levelled the three-match series 1-1

&nbsp;

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Indian captain Virat Kohli hit the nets in Cape Town on Sunday (November 09) ahead of the start of the third and final Test match against South Africa. Kohli had missed the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg as the visitors slipped to a seven-wicket defeat.

Indian captain Virat Kohli hit the nets in Cape Town on Sunday (November 09) ahead of the start of the third and final Test match against South Africa. Kohli had missed the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg as the visitors slipped to a seven-wicket defeat. Kohli had to sit out due to a back spasm. However, the Indian skipper seems to have recovered from the back issue as he was seen enjoying some batting practice at the Newlands on Sunday. Kohli is likely to make his comeback in the playing XI and lead the team in the third and final Test which will be a series-decider between the two teams. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a few pictures from India's training session in Cape Town ahead of the third Test where Kohli was seen focused while batting in the nets. Earlier, India head coach Rahul Dravid had said Kohli was on track for recovery and will be fine after a couple of training sessions. It's GO time here in Cape Town #TeamIndia all set and prepping for the series decider #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/RgPSPkNdk1 — BCCI (@BCCI) January 9, 2022 × KL Rahul had led India in the second Test in Johannesburg in the absence of Virat Kohli as he made his captaincy debut in Tests for the Indian team. He led from the front and scored a gritty fifty to help India post 202 runs on the board in their first innings. Also Read: 'Not a masterstroke, just show off': Ravindra Jadeja trolls KKR after IPL franchise takes a dig at MS Dhoni In reply, South Africa rode on half-centuries from Keegan Petersen and Temba Bavuma to score 229 runs and take a slight lead of 27 runs. India were skittled out for 266 runs in their second innings despite half-centuries from Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane as they managed to set up a moderate target of 240 runs for the hosts. South Africa skipper Dean Elgar turned out to be the hero for the Proteas in their second innings as he slammed a brilliant knock of unbeaten 96 to help the host chase down the total with seven wickets to spare. With the seven-wicket win, South Africa levelled the three-match series 1-1

Virat Kohli returns to nets as Team India gears up for series-decider against South Africa in Cape Town

KL Rahul led India in the second Test against South Africa at The Wanderers in Johannesburg after Virat Kohli was ruled out of the game due to a back spasm. It was Rahul's debut Test as the captain of the Indian team as he failed to inspire the visitors to a victory against the Proteas. India lost the Test match by seven wickets after failing to defend the total of 239 runs during South Africa's second innings.

With the win, South Africa levelled the three-match series 1-1 making the final third Test a decider for both teams. Former India opener Gautam Gambhir reckoned India missed regular skipper Kohli in the second Test not just as a batter but also as a leader. Gambhir explained why batters like Kohli can't be replaced by anyone despite them undergoing a rough patch with the willow.

"We definitely missed Virat Kohli the batsman. Steve Smith, Joe Root, Kane Williamson, Rohit Sharma, these are the type of batters you miss. And it is difficult to find their replacement, no matter what form they are in, because the expectation remains that they will score those big runs," said Gambhir on Star Sports.

"But Kohli the captain, we missed him as well because he is so experienced and things turn simpler for experienced captains because they have been around for long,” he added.

In the series-opener, Kohli had failed to notch up big scores with the bat but was exceptional as a captain on the pitch as he powered the visitors to a thumping win to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Gambhir believes Rahul will need time to learn and should be a quick learner as Test cricket is not as easy as ODIs and T20Is.

"But KL Rahul, the more time he spends, the better he will learn, but the faster he learns the better it is. This is not like ODI or T20I captaincy, which is far easier because you don't have to focus much on-field placements. In Test cricket you need to buy the wickets, sometimes even gamble with your choices," said the former India opener.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-ajinkya-rahane-sunil-gavaskar-names-player-virat-kohli-should-replace-in-3rd-test-vs-south-africa-443185">Not Ajinkya Rahane! Sunil Gavaskar names player Virat Kohli should replace in 3rd Test vs South Africa</a>

"Like in the case of Bavuma, had he placed three slips instead of keeping one at the cover and tempt him into playing the drive maybe there could have been an opportunity for caught behind. But he kept a deep point which was a defensive mindset and it is something that he should be told about. You need to be an aggressive captain, not by attitude, but with your field placements,” he explained.

India will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they lock horns with South Africa in the third and final Test which gets underway from January 11. The series is currently locked at 1-1 with India one win away from securing their maiden Test series victory in South Africa.

KL Rahul led India in the second Test against South Africa at The Wanderers in Johannesburg after Virat Kohli was ruled out of the game due to a back spasm. It was Rahul's debut Test as the captain of the Indian team as he failed to inspire the visitors to a victory against the Proteas.

KL Rahul led India in the second Test against South Africa at The Wanderers in Johannesburg after Virat Kohli was ruled out of the game due to a back spasm. It was Rahul's debut Test as the captain of the Indian team as he failed to inspire the visitors to a victory against the Proteas. India lost the Test match by seven wickets after failing to defend the total of 239 runs during South Africa's second innings. With the win, South Africa levelled the three-match series 1-1 making the final third Test a decider for both teams. Former India opener Gautam Gambhir reckoned India missed regular skipper Kohli in the second Test not just as a batter but also as a leader. Gambhir explained why batters like Kohli can't be replaced by anyone despite them undergoing a rough patch with the willow. "We definitely missed Virat Kohli the batsman. Steve Smith, Joe Root, Kane Williamson, Rohit Sharma, these are the type of batters you miss. And it is difficult to find their replacement, no matter what form they are in, because the expectation remains that they will score those big runs," said Gambhir on Star Sports. "But Kohli the captain, we missed him as well because he is so experienced and things turn simpler for experienced captains because they have been around for long,” he added. In the series-opener, Kohli had failed to notch up big scores with the bat but was exceptional as a captain on the pitch as he powered the visitors to a thumping win to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Gambhir believes Rahul will need time to learn and should be a quick learner as Test cricket is not as easy as ODIs and T20Is. "But KL Rahul, the more time he spends, the better he will learn, but the faster he learns the better it is. This is not like ODI or T20I captaincy, which is far easier because you don't have to focus much on-field placements. In Test cricket you need to buy the wickets, sometimes even gamble with your choices," said the former India opener. Also Read: Not Ajinkya Rahane! Sunil Gavaskar names player Virat Kohli should replace in 3rd Test vs South Africa "Like in the case of Bavuma, had he placed three slips instead of keeping one at the cover and tempt him into playing the drive maybe there could have been an opportunity for caught behind. But he kept a deep point which was a defensive mindset and it is something that he should be told about. You need to be an aggressive captain, not by attitude, but with your field placements,” he explained. India will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they lock horns with South Africa in the third and final Test which gets underway from January 11. The series is currently locked at 1-1 with India one win away from securing their maiden Test series victory in South Africa.

'Difficult to find a replacement': Gambhir explains why India missed Kohli in Johannesburg Test against SA

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli has endured a lean patch in international cricket for a while now as he continues to wait for his 71st century. Kohli had last scored a hundred for India in the Pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in 2019 and has since not managed to breach the triple-figure mark even once across all three formats of the game.

His form with the willow has been questionable as Kohli has struggled to score runs consistently. In the ongoing Test series against South Africa, the batting maestro was expected to hit the ground running from the first Test in Centurion. However, he failed to get going and was dismissed cheaply in both innings.

Kohli scored 35 and 18 runs in the two innings of the first Test against the Proteas before missing the second game due to a back spasm. The Indian Test skipper has averaged only 26.07 in the 14 Test matches that he has played in the last two years with 652 runs to his name.

However, Kohli has recieved backing from Australian opener David Warner, who believes it's only about time that Kohli gets back to his old rhythm. Lauding Kohli for the high standards he has set for himself with his performances in the past, Warner said he has earned the right to fail because he is so good at what he does.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-virat-kohli-or-kl-rahul-sunil-gavaskar-names-under-fire-indian-batter-who-reminds-him-of-hashim-amla-442970">&nbsp;Not Virat Kohli or KL Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names under-fire Indian batter who reminds him of Hashim Amla</a>

Warner also explained how the coronavirus pandemic and playing in bio-bubbles for long period might have taken a toll on Kohli's performances. He also highlighted the fact that Kohli had become a father last year and has not had much spare time to be with his family due to busy cricketing schedule.

"We have to understand Kohli’s situation too. The guy has been playing under a bubble for a long time. He has just become a father and rarely gets to see his daughter and wife. All these factors affect performance of the players. Even the best fail to cope up with tough situations sometimes," Warner said on the show&nbsp;Backstage with Boria.

"A lot of people talk about Virat Kohli's form over the last couple of years. We've gone through a pandemic. He has just had a baby. We only see how well he has done. You are allowed to fail. You are allowed to fail, you earn the right to fail when you are so good at what you do," he added.

Kohli is no more India's captain in the limited-overs formats and has a significant burden taken off his shoulders. He would be looking to make the most of it and bounce back to good form in the Indian team's&nbsp;ongoing tour of South Africa.

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli has endured a lean patch in international cricket for a while now as he continues to wait for his 71st century. Kohli had last scored a hundred for India in the Pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in 2019 and has since not managed to breach the triple-figure mark even once across all three formats of the game.

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli has endured a lean patch in international cricket for a while now as he continues to wait for his 71st century. Kohli had last scored a hundred for India in the Pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in 2019 and has since not managed to breach the triple-figure mark even once across all three formats of the game. His form with the willow has been questionable as Kohli has struggled to score runs consistently. In the ongoing Test series against South Africa, the batting maestro was expected to hit the ground running from the first Test in Centurion. However, he failed to get going and was dismissed cheaply in both innings. Kohli scored 35 and 18 runs in the two innings of the first Test against the Proteas before missing the second game due to a back spasm. The Indian Test skipper has averaged only 26.07 in the 14 Test matches that he has played in the last two years with 652 runs to his name. However, Kohli has recieved backing from Australian opener David Warner, who believes it's only about time that Kohli gets back to his old rhythm. Lauding Kohli for the high standards he has set for himself with his performances in the past, Warner said he has earned the right to fail because he is so good at what he does. Also Read: Not Virat Kohli or KL Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names under-fire Indian batter who reminds him of Hashim Amla Warner also explained how the coronavirus pandemic and playing in bio-bubbles for long period might have taken a toll on Kohli's performances. He also highlighted the fact that Kohli had become a father last year and has not had much spare time to be with his family due to busy cricketing schedule. "We have to understand Kohli’s situation too. The guy has been playing under a bubble for a long time. He has just become a father and rarely gets to see his daughter and wife. All these factors affect performance of the players. Even the best fail to cope up with tough situations sometimes," Warner said on the show Backstage with Boria. "A lot of people talk about Virat Kohli's form over the last couple of years. We've gone through a pandemic. He has just had a baby. We only see how well he has done. You are allowed to fail. You are allowed to fail, you earn the right to fail when you are so good at what you do," he added. Kohli is no more India's captain in the limited-overs formats and has a significant burden taken off his shoulders. He would be looking to make the most of it and bounce back to good form in the Indian team's ongoing tour of South Africa.

'You are allowed to fail': David Warner backs Virat Kohli to bounce back amid criticism over poor form

Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has backed Ajinkya Rahane to keep his spot in the playing XI in the upcoming third Test against South Africa at the Newlands in Cape Town. Rahane has been enduring a lean patch in the longest format for a while now and has failed to score runs consistently. He is under immense pressure to perform in order to save his spot in&nbsp;the Test side.

India n captain Virat Kohli, who had missed the second Test in Johannesburg due to a back spasm, is expected to make his comeback after recovering from the back issue. While many expect Rahane to make way for the skipper when he returns to the playing XI, considering the senior batter's poor form, Gavaskar wants Hanuma Vihari to be replaced and feels Rahane should continue being a part of the playing XI.

Rahane was dismissed for a duck in the first innings of the second Test against South Africa when Gavaskar had said the next innings was going to be his final shot at saving his Test career. The right-hander went on to notch up a solid 58-run-knock in the second innings while Vihari, who had missed the first Test, got scores of 20 and 40 not out in the two innings of the second Test.

Gavaskar said India's only change should be a replacement for fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, who picked up an injury. The batting legend wants the visitors to not tinker with the combination a lot and try to win the series-decider in Cape Town.

"Apart from the injury aspect about Siraj, I don't see any changes in the XI. This was pretty much the same team that won the first Test match. Obviously, when Kohli comes back Vihari will be the one to miss out. And if Siraj doesn't recover or the team management doesn't have enough confidence in him, because in a five-day Test match and on a day he is expected to deliver, but if he isn't being able to bowl for 15-20 overs owing to the hamstring then they will have him replace. Whether it will be Umesh Yadav or Ishant Sharma, but that is going to be the only concern as far as the Indian team is concerned," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kl-rahul-wasim-jaffer-names-player-who-should-have-led-india-against-sa-in-virat-kohlis-absence-443117">&nbsp;Not KL Rahul! Wasim Jaffer names player who should have led India against SA in Virat Kohli's absence</a>

The former India captain said both Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara, who have been facing the heat for their poor show with the bat, came out good in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test against the Proteas and should be backed considering their experience and what they have done for the team in the past.

“Already the team has backed them owing to their experience and what they have done for India in the past. And they did come good. You have these exciting young players waiting in the wings whom we are all wanting to see but as long as these senior players are playing and playing well and not getting out badly them I think we should stick with them and faith in them," Gavaskar said.

&nbsp;

Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has backed Ajinkya Rahane to keep his spot in the playing XI in the upcoming third Test against South Africa at the Newlands in Cape Town.

Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has backed Ajinkya Rahane to keep his spot in the playing XI in the upcoming third Test against South Africa at the Newlands in Cape Town. Rahane has been enduring a lean patch in the longest format for a while now and has failed to score runs consistently. He is under immense pressure to perform in order to save his spot in the Test side. India n captain Virat Kohli, who had missed the second Test in Johannesburg due to a back spasm, is expected to make his comeback after recovering from the back issue. While many expect Rahane to make way for the skipper when he returns to the playing XI, considering the senior batter's poor form, Gavaskar wants Hanuma Vihari to be replaced and feels Rahane should continue being a part of the playing XI. Rahane was dismissed for a duck in the first innings of the second Test against South Africa when Gavaskar had said the next innings was going to be his final shot at saving his Test career. The right-hander went on to notch up a solid 58-run-knock in the second innings while Vihari, who had missed the first Test, got scores of 20 and 40 not out in the two innings of the second Test. Gavaskar said India's only change should be a replacement for fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, who picked up an injury. The batting legend wants the visitors to not tinker with the combination a lot and try to win the series-decider in Cape Town. "Apart from the injury aspect about Siraj, I don't see any changes in the XI. This was pretty much the same team that won the first Test match. Obviously, when Kohli comes back Vihari will be the one to miss out. And if Siraj doesn't recover or the team management doesn't have enough confidence in him, because in a five-day Test match and on a day he is expected to deliver, but if he isn't being able to bowl for 15-20 overs owing to the hamstring then they will have him replace. Whether it will be Umesh Yadav or Ishant Sharma, but that is going to be the only concern as far as the Indian team is concerned," Gavaskar said on Star Sports. Also Read: Not KL Rahul! Wasim Jaffer names player who should have led India against SA in Virat Kohli's absence The former India captain said both Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara, who have been facing the heat for their poor show with the bat, came out good in the second innings of the Johannesburg Test against the Proteas and should be backed considering their experience and what they have done for the team in the past. “Already the team has backed them owing to their experience and what they have done for India in the past. And they did come good. You have these exciting young players waiting in the wings whom we are all wanting to see but as long as these senior players are playing and playing well and not getting out badly them I think we should stick with them and faith in them," Gavaskar said.

Not Ajinkya Rahane! Sunil Gavaskar names player Virat Kohli should replace in 3rd Test vs South Africa

KL Rahul made his captaincy debut for India in Tests&nbsp;as he led the visitors in the second Test against South Africa at The Wanderers in Johannesburg. Rahul was asked to lead the side in the absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli, who had to sit out of the Test match due to a back spasm.

Rahul failed to inspire India to a victory but the visitors put on a strong fight in the game against the Proteas before going down by seven wickets. While many welcomed the decision to appoint Rahul as captain in Kohli's absence, former India batsman Wasim Jaffer believes Rahul should not have been handed the captaincy.

Jaffer said he was surprised by the Indian team management's decision to go with Rahul as the captain of the side despite someone like Ajinkya Rahane being there in the squad. Rahane's form of late has been questionable but he has a tremendous record as the captain of the Test side and is yet to lose a game as captain in the longest format.

“I am surprised by the team management. When you have someone as good as Ajinkya Rahane available who has not lost any Test as a captain and won you a Test series in Australia, do you need to give the Test captaincy to KL Rahul?” Jaffer was quoted as saying by Insidesport.

“I have nothing against KL Rahul. He is young and has captained the Punjab Kings. People are thinking about him as a future captain. But I think Rahane should have led the side in Kohli’s absence,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-are-allowed-to-fail-david-warner-backs-virat-kohli-to-bounce-back-amid-criticism-over-poor-form-443096">'You are allowed to fail': David Warner backs Virat Kohli to bounce back amid criticism over poor form</a>

Jaffer reckoned India missed Kohli on the field as the captain brings in a lot of aggressiveness and positive intent with him. India failed to defend the total of 239 runs during South Africa's second innings as Proteas skipper Dean Elgar played a gritty knock of unbeaten 96 to take them home in the run-chase.

“India definitely missed Virat Kohli, the captain, because he brings so much aggression to the field. When you have such a player on the field, you know you will be held accountable if you make a mistake. So, they missed that energy,” Jaffer said.

India and South Africa will now lock horns in the series-deciding third Test which gets underway from January 11 in Newlands Cape Town.

KL Rahul made his captaincy debut for India in Tests as he led the visitors in the second Test against South Africa at The Wanderers in Johannesburg. Rahul was asked to lead the side in the absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli, who had to sit out of the Test match due to a back spasm.

KL Rahul made his captaincy debut for India in Tests as he led the visitors in the second Test against South Africa at The Wanderers in Johannesburg. Rahul was asked to lead the side in the absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli, who had to sit out of the Test match due to a back spasm. Rahul failed to inspire India to a victory but the visitors put on a strong fight in the game against the Proteas before going down by seven wickets. While many welcomed the decision to appoint Rahul as captain in Kohli's absence, former India batsman Wasim Jaffer believes Rahul should not have been handed the captaincy. Jaffer said he was surprised by the Indian team management's decision to go with Rahul as the captain of the side despite someone like Ajinkya Rahane being there in the squad. Rahane's form of late has been questionable but he has a tremendous record as the captain of the Test side and is yet to lose a game as captain in the longest format. “I am surprised by the team management. When you have someone as good as Ajinkya Rahane available who has not lost any Test as a captain and won you a Test series in Australia, do you need to give the Test captaincy to KL Rahul?” Jaffer was quoted as saying by Insidesport. “I have nothing against KL Rahul. He is young and has captained the Punjab Kings. People are thinking about him as a future captain. But I think Rahane should have led the side in Kohli’s absence,” he added. Also Read: 'You are allowed to fail': David Warner backs Virat Kohli to bounce back amid criticism over poor form Jaffer reckoned India missed Kohli on the field as the captain brings in a lot of aggressiveness and positive intent with him. India failed to defend the total of 239 runs during South Africa's second innings as Proteas skipper Dean Elgar played a gritty knock of unbeaten 96 to take them home in the run-chase. “India definitely missed Virat Kohli, the captain, because he brings so much aggression to the field. When you have such a player on the field, you know you will be held accountable if you make a mistake. So, they missed that energy,” Jaffer said. India and South Africa will now lock horns in the series-deciding third Test which gets underway from January 11 in Newlands Cape Town.

Not KL Rahul! Wasim Jaffer names player who should have led India against SA in Virat Kohli's absence

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town. Despite the loss, India have plenty of takeaways as they competed hard despite regular captain Virat Kohli warming the bench due to upper back spasm.

In addition, the middle-order stood tall as the likes of under-fire senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane got some runs (sharing a 111-run stand for the third-wicket during India's second essay) and returning with a half-century each. Hanuma Vihari, playing for injured Kohli, also got runs in both the innings and looked impressive. After the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on India's No. 3 Pujara and claims that he reminds him of SA great Hashim Amla.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

“When I look at him, he reminds me of Hashim. Watching Hashim bat, you know there's a sense of calm that everything is under control. The ball could be doing things but there was that sense because even on pitches where the ball was turning, the way Hashim was batting in India, it was almost as if, 'look, nothing's happening', and that's the same thing with Cheteshwar Pujara," said Gavaskar on SuperSport.

Gavaskar further termed that players with Pujara's temperament are "absolutely terrific"&nbsp;for the dressing room.

“It is a great, great blessing to have players of this temperament in your dressing room. (It may not be) necessarily just on the field but it's a huge plus and I think having somebody with Cheteshwar Puajra's temperament in the changing room must be absolutely terrific because in international cricket, there are several moments of tension where people would want to do this or that or the other. When you have somebody who's going to think about it calmly and give you a measured opinion it makes a big difference,” said Gavaskar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biggest-challenge-for-rahul-dravid-will-be-ex-selector-reacts-to-indias-jburg-test-defeat-vs-sa-442965">'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA</a>

Despite the second Test loss, India still have a chance to win their maiden series on South African soil if they win the decider in Cape Town. The visitors will hope for Kohli's return and also for Pujara to score a daddy hundred and lead the charge with the bat.

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town.

India lost the second and penultimate Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa by 7 wickets as the threee-match series is now levelled at 1-1 with the final Test set to be held on January 11, at Newlands, Cape Town. Despite the loss, India have plenty of takeaways as they competed hard despite regular captain Virat Kohli warming the bench due to upper back spasm. In addition, the middle-order stood tall as the likes of under-fire senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane got some runs (sharing a 111-run stand for the third-wicket during India's second essay) and returning with a half-century each. Hanuma Vihari, playing for injured Kohli, also got runs in both the innings and looked impressive. After the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on India's No. 3 Pujara and claims that he reminds him of SA great Hashim Amla. ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg “When I look at him, he reminds me of Hashim. Watching Hashim bat, you know there's a sense of calm that everything is under control. The ball could be doing things but there was that sense because even on pitches where the ball was turning, the way Hashim was batting in India, it was almost as if, 'look, nothing's happening', and that's the same thing with Cheteshwar Pujara," said Gavaskar on SuperSport. Gavaskar further termed that players with Pujara's temperament are "absolutely terrific" for the dressing room. “It is a great, great blessing to have players of this temperament in your dressing room. (It may not be) necessarily just on the field but it's a huge plus and I think having somebody with Cheteshwar Puajra's temperament in the changing room must be absolutely terrific because in international cricket, there are several moments of tension where people would want to do this or that or the other. When you have somebody who's going to think about it calmly and give you a measured opinion it makes a big difference,” said Gavaskar. ALSO READ | 'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA Despite the second Test loss, India still have a chance to win their maiden series on South African soil if they win the decider in Cape Town. The visitors will hope for Kohli's return and also for Pujara to score a daddy hundred and lead the charge with the bat.

Not Virat Kohli or KL Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names under-fire Indian batter who reminds him of Hashim Amla

KL Rahul-led India fought hard but lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 06). As Day 4 resumed with India needing 8 more wickets whereas Dean Elgar-led Proteas were 122 runs away from their 240-run target, Rahul &amp; Co. managed to take only one more wicket as Elgar's 96 not out propelled the home side to a seven-wicket win.

With this, the series is now levelled at 1-1 with one more Test to go. While India returned with a lot of positives, such as competing hard sans regular captain Virat Kohli, the all-round performance of Shardul Thakur and middle-order getting some runs courtesy Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari and Ajinkya Rahane, the former Indian keeper-batsman and ex-selector Saba Karim feels head coach Rahul Dravid has lots to do to inspire the national team to their maiden Test series win on African soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-want-to-be-harsh-kl-rahul-points-out-where-india-lost-the-plot-after-jburg-test-defeat-vs-sa-442909">'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA</a>

Talking on Youtube channel&nbsp;Khelneeti,&nbsp;Karim said, "The biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be to eradicate this graph of ups and downs. The main reason for this inconsistency is that, the one Test match that we play, we play with all our energy and intensity but for the next match we lack that very energy and unity."

He added, "If we analyze carefully, we can see that all our players together are a superpower for a particular Test match. But to win a series you much show the same intensity and Test match throughout. We show the intentisy for the entire 15 sessions but the force and preparation we need across the 15 sessions of the next match goes missing and that's the reason behind this graph."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

Opting to bat first in J'burg, the Kohli-less Indian team managed 202 in the first innings. In reply, SA were bundled out for 229; managing a vital 27-run lead. In their second essay, India made 266 and setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts before Elgar's heroics took the Proteas past the finish line on a rain-marred Day 4.

KL Rahul-led India fought hard but lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 06). As Day 4 resumed with India needing 8 more wickets whereas Dean Elgar-led Proteas were 122 runs away from their 240-run target, Rahul & Co.

KL Rahul-led India fought hard but lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 06). As Day 4 resumed with India needing 8 more wickets whereas Dean Elgar-led Proteas were 122 runs away from their 240-run target, Rahul & Co. managed to take only one more wicket as Elgar's 96 not out propelled the home side to a seven-wicket win. With this, the series is now levelled at 1-1 with one more Test to go. While India returned with a lot of positives, such as competing hard sans regular captain Virat Kohli, the all-round performance of Shardul Thakur and middle-order getting some runs courtesy Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari and Ajinkya Rahane, the former Indian keeper-batsman and ex-selector Saba Karim feels head coach Rahul Dravid has lots to do to inspire the national team to their maiden Test series win on African soil. ALSO READ | 'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA Talking on Youtube channel Khelneeti, Karim said, "The biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be to eradicate this graph of ups and downs. The main reason for this inconsistency is that, the one Test match that we play, we play with all our energy and intensity but for the next match we lack that very energy and unity." He added, "If we analyze carefully, we can see that all our players together are a superpower for a particular Test match. But to win a series you much show the same intensity and Test match throughout. We show the intentisy for the entire 15 sessions but the force and preparation we need across the 15 sessions of the next match goes missing and that's the reason behind this graph." ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg Opting to bat first in J'burg, the Kohli-less Indian team managed 202 in the first innings. In reply, SA were bundled out for 229; managing a vital 27-run lead. In their second essay, India made 266 and setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts before Elgar's heroics took the Proteas past the finish line on a rain-marred Day 4.

'Biggest challenge for Rahul Dravid will be....' - Ex-selector reacts to India's J'burg Test defeat vs SA

The second Test between India and South Africa ended on Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The match was set for an epic finish at stumps on Day 3 when India needed 8 more wickets whereas SA were need of 122 more runs -- chasing 240 -- at the iconic stadium. While rain interruption and wet outfield led to the first two sessions being washed out on Day 4, the evening session was enough for the Proteas to produce a result with a seven-wicket win to keep the series alive.

Sans regular captain Virat Kohli, KL Rahul-led India fought very hard before going down in the fourth and penultimate day. Batting first, India only managed 202 on board in the first innings and conceded a vital 27-run lead to the home side. In their second essay, India were dismissed for 266, setting up a 240-run target. Eventually, Elgar's resistance (96 not out) and other vital contributions from the SA batters led to the hosts' series-levelling win.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-cship-points-table-after-dean-elgar-led-south-africa-beat-india-in-jburg-442895">Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg</a>

Captaining India for the first time for a full match, in Kohli's absence, Rahul lauded Team India. He mentioned where India lost the plot in a closely-fought contest in J'burg, provided update on Captain Kohli and shared words of praise for Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. In the post-match presentation, Rahul said, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test.

"Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test.," Rahul added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-regain-fitness-for-india-vs-sa-3rd-test-head-coach-rahul-dravid-provides-big-update-442863">Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update</a>

India will like to take a lot of positives from the J'burg Test. The fact that they managed to compete so well with no Kohli in the middle speaks volumes of the team's confidence. Shardul Thakur's all-round performance, vital runs from Pujara and Rahane and Hanuma Vihari will keep India in good stead before the series finale.

India still have a chance to create history by winning their maiden Test series in South Africa during the forthcoming third and final Test, at Newlands Cape Town, on January 11 and also conquer the final frontier (among SENA countries).&nbsp;

The second Test between India and South Africa ended on Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The match was set for an epic finish at stumps on Day 3 when India needed 8 more wickets whereas SA were need of 122 more runs -- chasing 240 -- at the iconic stadium.

The second Test between India and South Africa ended on Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The match was set for an epic finish at stumps on Day 3 when India needed 8 more wickets whereas SA were need of 122 more runs -- chasing 240 -- at the iconic stadium. While rain interruption and wet outfield led to the first two sessions being washed out on Day 4, the evening session was enough for the Proteas to produce a result with a seven-wicket win to keep the series alive. Sans regular captain Virat Kohli, KL Rahul-led India fought very hard before going down in the fourth and penultimate day. Batting first, India only managed 202 on board in the first innings and conceded a vital 27-run lead to the home side. In their second essay, India were dismissed for 266, setting up a 240-run target. Eventually, Elgar's resistance (96 not out) and other vital contributions from the SA batters led to the hosts' series-levelling win. ALSO READ | Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg Captaining India for the first time for a full match, in Kohli's absence, Rahul lauded Team India. He mentioned where India lost the plot in a closely-fought contest in J'burg, provided update on Captain Kohli and shared words of praise for Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. In the post-match presentation, Rahul said, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test. "Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test.," Rahul added. ALSO READ | Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update India will like to take a lot of positives from the J'burg Test. The fact that they managed to compete so well with no Kohli in the middle speaks volumes of the team's confidence. Shardul Thakur's all-round performance, vital runs from Pujara and Rahane and Hanuma Vihari will keep India in good stead before the series finale. India still have a chance to create history by winning their maiden Test series in South Africa during the forthcoming third and final Test, at Newlands Cape Town, on January 11 and also conquer the final frontier (among SENA countries).

'If I want to be harsh....' - KL Rahul points out where India lost the plot after J'burg Test defeat vs SA

India and South Africa played out an intense second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, where Dean Elgar-led Proteas won the clash by 7 wickets on a rain-marred fourth day on Thursday (January 6). When play resumed, SA resumed from 118-2, in pursuit of 240, chances for a win was bright for both sides, however, skipper Dean Elgar's 96 not out propelled his side to a seven-wicket win as the series got levelled with one match to go.

After the epic encounter, here's a look at the updated ICC World Test championship points table:&nbsp;

<img alt="WTC Points Table after India vs SA 2nd Test" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a75e9dfb-28eb-411f-ab89-ac98d48d9682" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC_0.PNG" />

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dean-elgars-gritty-96-takes-proteas-to-emphatic-7-wicket-win-in-jbrug-test-vs-india-series-levelled-442734">Dean Elgar's gritty 96* takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled</a>

Talking about the J'burg Test, KL Rahul-led India fought hard throughout the course of the second Test sans Virat Kohli -- who was out due to upper back spasm -- despite being bundled out for 202 in the first essay Conceding a 27-run lead, India managed 266 in their second innings to setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts. Nonetheless, Elgar's resistance proved too hard to break for the Indian bowlers as the series is now levelled at 1-1.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-regain-fitness-for-india-vs-sa-3rd-test-head-coach-rahul-dravid-provides-big-update-442863">Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update</a>

At the post-match presentation, Rahul told the broadcasters, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test. Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test.

More changes are expected in the WTC points table in the coming weeks with the third and final Test between both nations, Ashes 2021's penultimate contest in Sydney and Bangladesh-New Zealand Test series finale in the latter's own backyard.

India and South Africa played out an intense second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, where Dean Elgar-led Proteas won the clash by 7 wickets on a rain-marred fourth day on Thursday (January 6).

India and South Africa played out an intense second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, where Dean Elgar-led Proteas won the clash by 7 wickets on a rain-marred fourth day on Thursday (January 6). When play resumed, SA resumed from 118-2, in pursuit of 240, chances for a win was bright for both sides, however, skipper Dean Elgar's 96 not out propelled his side to a seven-wicket win as the series got levelled with one match to go. After the epic encounter, here's a look at the updated ICC World Test championship points table: ALSO READ | Dean Elgar's gritty 96* takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled Talking about the J'burg Test, KL Rahul-led India fought hard throughout the course of the second Test sans Virat Kohli -- who was out due to upper back spasm -- despite being bundled out for 202 in the first essay Conceding a 27-run lead, India managed 266 in their second innings to setup a competitive 240-run target for the hosts. Nonetheless, Elgar's resistance proved too hard to break for the Indian bowlers as the series is now levelled at 1-1. ALSO READ | Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update At the post-match presentation, Rahul told the broadcasters, "Every Test match we play, we want to win, we go out there and compete hard, but South Africa played really well and deserved this victory. We were looking to get on the field today, try and do something special, 122 to get, the pitch was playing up and down, we had a good chance, but their batters played really well. If I want to be harsh, the first innings total of 202 was at least 50-60 runs short, we should have scored more and put them under pressure. Shardul (Thakur) has been superb for us, has won us a lot of games, he bowled well in the first innings and gave us a chance today as well. They have been great players for us (on Pujara and Rahane), have always done the job for us over the years, have been under the pump recently, but we believe Pujara and Rahane are our best middle-order players, to go out there, bat in that mindset and play such an innings. It'll give them confidence and make them do even better in the next Test. Virat is already feeling better, he's been doing a bit of fielding and think he'll be fine. With Siraj, we need to monitor him in the nets. It's tough to come back immediately from a hamstring issue, but we do have a good bench strength in the form of Umesh and Ishant. We expected this when we came here, every Test will be competitive and challenging, we'll be more hungrier after this disappointing loss. Looking forward to Cape Town and the third Test. More changes are expected in the WTC points table in the coming weeks with the third and final Test between both nations, Ashes 2021's penultimate contest in Sydney and Bangladesh-New Zealand Test series finale in the latter's own backyard.

Updated ICC World Test C'ship points table after Dean Elgar-led South Africa beat India in J'burg

KL Rahul-led India lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa on a rain-marred Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The first two sessions got washed out due to rain break and wet outfield, however, Rahul &amp; Co. lost the encounter in a jiffy when the match resumed with the Proteas needing 122 more runs (in pursuit of 240) and visitors in search of 8 wickets.

While many thought the overcast conditions would favour the bowlers, SA captain Dean Elgar produced a gutsy and unbeaten 96-run knock to lead his troops from the front and take his side to a series-levelling seven-wicket win in J'burg. This became India's first-ever loss at the venue in the purest format. While Rahul &amp; Co. did compete very well and remained in the contest despite being all-out for 202 in the first innings, the visitors missed their regular captain Virat Kohli's presence throughout the Test.

Sharing an update on Kohli -- who missed the second Test due to upper back spasm -- head coach Rahul Dravid said in a virtual press conference, "Virat Kohli should be fine from all accounts, he should be fine. He has had the opportunity to run around a little bit, he has had the opportunity to test it a little bit. Hopefully with a couple of net sessions in Cape Town, he should be good to go. Everything I am hearing and just having a chat with him, he should be good to go in four days time."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dean-elgars-gritty-96-takes-proteas-to-emphatic-7-wicket-win-in-jbrug-test-vs-india-series-levelled-442734">Dean Elgar's gritty 96 takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled</a>

When asked about his take on India's batting performance in the series so far, Dravid said: "It has been challenging wickets for both the teams, South Africa's fourth innings was probably their best with the bat. Yes, as a batting unit we can look to seize a few key moments and when we get partnerships, we can look to make them longer. It was challenging in the first innings but we could have gotten 55-60 runs more which could have made a huge difference."

"Certainly, we would like to bat a little better. Maybe the guys who got starts could have converted them into 100s. That was the difference in the first game, we had Rahul scoring century for us and we ended up on the winning side. Dean Elgar scored 96 in this Test and South Africa ended up on the winning side," he added.

So far, India have managed scores of 327, 174, 202 and 266 in the four outings with the willow in the series. Thus, the batters will have to step up and perform if India have to win their maiden Test series on South African soil

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-must-have-given-him-a-hearing-gavaskar-on-rishabh-pants-shot-selection-on-day-3-of-jburg-test-442693">Dravid must have given him a hearing: Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test</a>

For the unversed, the third and final Test will commence on January 11 at Newlands, Cape Town. Ahead of the series finale, the Indian camp is positive of Kohli's full recovery as the 33-year-old missed his first-ever Test since 2017 due to injury concerns.

KL Rahul-led India lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa on a rain-marred Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The first two sessions got washed out due to rain break and wet outfield, however, Rahul & Co.

KL Rahul-led India lost the second and penultimate Test versus South Africa on a rain-marred Day 4 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Thursday (January 6). The first two sessions got washed out due to rain break and wet outfield, however, Rahul & Co. lost the encounter in a jiffy when the match resumed with the Proteas needing 122 more runs (in pursuit of 240) and visitors in search of 8 wickets. While many thought the overcast conditions would favour the bowlers, SA captain Dean Elgar produced a gutsy and unbeaten 96-run knock to lead his troops from the front and take his side to a series-levelling seven-wicket win in J'burg. This became India's first-ever loss at the venue in the purest format. While Rahul & Co. did compete very well and remained in the contest despite being all-out for 202 in the first innings, the visitors missed their regular captain Virat Kohli's presence throughout the Test. Sharing an update on Kohli -- who missed the second Test due to upper back spasm -- head coach Rahul Dravid said in a virtual press conference, "Virat Kohli should be fine from all accounts, he should be fine. He has had the opportunity to run around a little bit, he has had the opportunity to test it a little bit. Hopefully with a couple of net sessions in Cape Town, he should be good to go. Everything I am hearing and just having a chat with him, he should be good to go in four days time." ALSO READ | Dean Elgar's gritty 96 takes Proteas to emphatic 7-wicket win in J'brug Test vs India, series levelled When asked about his take on India's batting performance in the series so far, Dravid said: "It has been challenging wickets for both the teams, South Africa's fourth innings was probably their best with the bat. Yes, as a batting unit we can look to seize a few key moments and when we get partnerships, we can look to make them longer. It was challenging in the first innings but we could have gotten 55-60 runs more which could have made a huge difference." "Certainly, we would like to bat a little better. Maybe the guys who got starts could have converted them into 100s. That was the difference in the first game, we had Rahul scoring century for us and we ended up on the winning side. Dean Elgar scored 96 in this Test and South Africa ended up on the winning side," he added. So far, India have managed scores of 327, 174, 202 and 266 in the four outings with the willow in the series. Thus, the batters will have to step up and perform if India have to win their maiden Test series on South African soil ALSO READ | Dravid must have given him a hearing: Gavaskar on Rishabh Pant's shot selection on Day 3 of J'burg Test For the unversed, the third and final Test will commence on January 11 at Newlands, Cape Town. Ahead of the series finale, the Indian camp is positive of Kohli's full recovery as the 33-year-old missed his first-ever Test since 2017 due to injury concerns.

Will Virat Kohli regain fitness for India vs SA 3rd Test? Head coach Rahul Dravid provides BIG update

Indian fans were in for a shock when they saw KL Rahul come out for the coin toss for the second and penultimate Test between Team India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Monday (January 3). The regular captain Virat Kohli missed out due to upper back spasm. Thus, it became the first Test that the 33-year-old Kohli missed due to injury concerns, since the Dharamshala Test versus Australia in early 2017.

With India being on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series in South Africa, Kohli would've been gutted to warm the bench as Hanuma Vihari got a chance in his place for the second Test in J'burg. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Kohli's omission and said he was 'absolutely shocked' to see the star batter miss out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-provides-update-on-mohammed-sirajs-injury-as-pacer-hobbles-off-the-pitch-during-2nd-test-vs-sa-442065">R Ashwin provides update on Mohammed Siraj's injury as pacer hobbles off the pitch during 2nd Test vs SA</a>

Manjrekar, speaking to&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo, admitted that all kinds of thoughts went through his head when he came to know that Kohli won't be part of the J'burg Test.

“I was absolutely shocked when I read that KL Rahul is walking out for the toss. All kinds of thoughts came over my mind. Various thoughts, but who would’ve thought that an injury to Virat Kohli because he’s one of those guys who never ever miss a Test match. And considering that India is in a great position to win and make history, it’s really unfortunate. It seems he’s really hurting. Shocking in many ways because it’s a surprise. And a batting setback as well despite his form.” Manjrekar said in the preview session.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-2nd-test-rahul-joins-elite-list-comprising-virat-kohli-and-ganguly-after-50-on-captaincy-debut-442011">Ind vs SA, 2nd Test: Rahul joins elite list comprising Virat Kohli and Ganguly after 50 on captaincy debut</a>

On the other hand, Manjrekar also was thrilled to see Rahul's stocks rise in recent times due to his rich vein of form and the batter was rewarded to lead the side in Kohli's absence. In this regard, the former cricketer said, "There’s something about Test match performances. You have Rohit Sharma who had a great Test series vs ENG. Immediately after that, he became a captaincy candidate. If not for his injury, he would’ve captained this match,” he said.

“Test match performances really help the credibility of a player and KL Rahul’s performance in England and his 100 recently has contributed to his rise and stature in the team. Seen this with Rohit Sharma and now with KL Rahul. And this is all to do with the hard work that they put in, in England,” he added.

For the unversed, Rahul will also lead India in the three ODIs in South Africa, after the Test series, as limited-overs skipper Rohit has been ruled out due to hamstring issues.&nbsp;

Talking about Day 1 of the second Test, India won the toss and managed only a paltry 202 in the first innings. In reply, SA went to stumps at 35-1 as Rahul &amp; Co. have a stiff task to prevent the Proteas from dictating terms in the penultimate Test.

Indian fans were in for a shock when they saw KL Rahul come out for the coin toss for the second and penultimate Test between Team India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Monday (January 3).

Indian fans were in for a shock when they saw KL Rahul come out for the coin toss for the second and penultimate Test between Team India and South Africa, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg on Monday (January 3). The regular captain Virat Kohli missed out due to upper back spasm. Thus, it became the first Test that the 33-year-old Kohli missed due to injury concerns, since the Dharamshala Test versus Australia in early 2017. With India being on the cusp of winning their first-ever Test series in South Africa, Kohli would've been gutted to warm the bench as Hanuma Vihari got a chance in his place for the second Test in J'burg. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Kohli's omission and said he was 'absolutely shocked' to see the star batter miss out. ALSO READ | R Ashwin provides update on Mohammed Siraj's injury as pacer hobbles off the pitch during 2nd Test vs SA Manjrekar, speaking to ESPNCricinfo, admitted that all kinds of thoughts went through his head when he came to know that Kohli won't be part of the J'burg Test. “I was absolutely shocked when I read that KL Rahul is walking out for the toss. All kinds of thoughts came over my mind. Various thoughts, but who would’ve thought that an injury to Virat Kohli because he’s one of those guys who never ever miss a Test match. And considering that India is in a great position to win and make history, it’s really unfortunate. It seems he’s really hurting. Shocking in many ways because it’s a surprise. And a batting setback as well despite his form.” Manjrekar said in the preview session. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 2nd Test: Rahul joins elite list comprising Virat Kohli and Ganguly after 50 on captaincy debut On the other hand, Manjrekar also was thrilled to see Rahul's stocks rise in recent times due to his rich vein of form and the batter was rewarded to lead the side in Kohli's absence. In this regard, the former cricketer said, "There’s something about Test match performances. You have Rohit Sharma who had a great Test series vs ENG. Immediately after that, he became a captaincy candidate. If not for his injury, he would’ve captained this match,” he said. “Test match performances really help the credibility of a player and KL Rahul’s performance in England and his 100 recently has contributed to his rise and stature in the team. Seen this with Rohit Sharma and now with KL Rahul. And this is all to do with the hard work that they put in, in England,” he added. For the unversed, Rahul will also lead India in the three ODIs in South Africa, after the Test series, as limited-overs skipper Rohit has been ruled out due to hamstring issues. Talking about Day 1 of the second Test, India won the toss and managed only a paltry 202 in the first innings. In reply, SA went to stumps at 35-1 as Rahul & Co. have a stiff task to prevent the Proteas from dictating terms in the penultimate Test.

'All kinds of thoughts...': Manjrekar on Kohli's absence, says 'was absolutely shocked' to see him miss out

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