'It's a disgrace': Newlands pitch in focus after crazy 23-wicket opening day

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jan 3, 2024, 23:01 IST

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India suffered a spectacular collapse, losing six batters for no run as 23 wickets fell on a crazy opening day of the second Test against South Africa at Newlands on Wednesday. Earlier, South Africa was bowled out for just 55 in 23.2 overs, sliding to its lowest total since being readmitted to Test cricket in 1991, after Mohammed Siraj claimed a test-best haul of 6-15. South Africa then reached the close of play on 62-3 in its second innings, trailing by 36 runs overall, with Aiden Markram unbeaten on 36 and David Bedingham seven not out.

'It's a disgrace': Newlands pitch in focus after crazy 23-wicket opening day

Virat Kohli (46) was the top run-scorer on an unreal opening day of the Cape Town Test. (PTI photo)

NEW DELHI: With 23 wickets falling on a rollercoaster opening day of the second Test between South Africa and India in Cape Town, the pitch at the Newlands became a huge talking point on Wednesday.
After South Africa skittled to their lowest score since being readmitted to Test cricket in 1991, India middle and lower order imploded -- six wickets fell for 0 runs in 11 balls -- as pacers had a gala time on a surface that offered seam movement and variable bounce.
Amid a frenetic opening day, the social media was abuzz with chatter related to the playing surface.
From cricket pundits to fans, the Newlands pitch had a variety of opinions, ranging from criticism to applause for the bowlers to the fighting spirit of a handful of batters.

At the close of play on Day 1, South Africa reached 62 for 3 in its second innings, trailing by 36 runs overall, with Aiden Markram unbeaten on 36 and David Bedingham seven not out.
South Africa have an unassailable 1-0 lead in the 2-Test series.

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