Rabada Revels in Kohli Dismissal, Earns 14th Five-Wicket Haul

Kagiso Rabada expressed delight after dismissing Virat Kohli, describing the delivery that led to Kohlis departure. India faced challenges on the first day of the opening Test against South Africa.

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada expressed his delight after dismissing Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli on the first day of the opening Test match between India and South Africa at Supersport Park in Centurion. Rabada, who claimed his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, revealed that he was pleased with the way he bowled and felt fortunate to have dismissed Kohli.

Kohli's Dismissal

Rabada described the delivery that led to Kohli's dismissal, explaining that the ball swung away late and took the outside edge of Kohli's bat. He praised Kohli's ability to cover the swing, but noted that he was able to get a "fainty faint edge" on the ball.

A Satisfying Day for Rabada

Rabada expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating that he was happy with the way he bowled and that he felt it was his day. He acknowledged India's experience and said that South Africa would have been pleased to restrict India to 208 for 8 before the game.

KL Rahul's Batting

Rabada also praised the batting of Indian opener KL Rahul, describing his stroke-making options as good and his defense as solid. He noted that Rahul stood out among the batters and was the standout performer for India on the day.

Proteas' Bowling Tactics

Rabada discussed the Proteas' bowling tactics, revealing that they bowled 65 deliveries on the leg-stump channel with a leg slip in place during the first session. He explained that they felt it was a logical tactic after lunch, as the two left-armers were in attack and were swinging the ball in. Rabada also mentioned that they almost got Kohli at square leg before changing tactics after lunch.

Rabada's performance was a key factor in South Africa's strong start to the Test match, and his dismissal of Kohli was a significant moment in the day's play. The Proteas will look to build on their advantage and secure a victory in the opening Test.