In an extraordinary turn of events, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team scripted history by securing a seven-wicket win against hosts South Africa in what will be remembered as the shortest Test match in the 147-year-old history of Test cricket. The match concluded on the second session of Day 3, with only 107 overs played, leaving fans and cricket enthusiasts in awe of the unparalleled excitement that unfolded at Cape Town.
The New Year’s Test match proved to be a rollercoaster ride for both teams. South Africa, opting to bat first, suffered a shocking collapse, being bundled out for a mere 55 runs in the morning session. Mohammed Siraj emerged as the tormentor-in-chief, wreaking havoc with a sensational six-wicket haul. This marked South Africa’s lowest Test score since their readmission to international cricket.
In response, India appeared poised for a substantial lead at 153-4. However, in a stunning turn of events, they lost six wickets in just 11 balls without adding a run. The collapse left the visitors with a still commanding 98-run lead, thanks to noteworthy contributions from Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill.
The drama continued as South Africa, fueled by Aiden Markram’s stellar century, managed to set a target of 79 runs for India. Jasprit Bumrah’s six-wicket haul played a pivotal role in bowling out the hosts for 176, setting the stage for a nail-biting chase.
Chasing the modest target, young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his attacking prowess, smashing six boundaries and setting the tone for India’s pursuit. Although India lost three wickets, the duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli guided the team to victory with an aggressive approach.
Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah starred with the ball, both claiming six wickets each in the second innings. Their relentless pace and precision dismantled the South African batting lineup, ultimately sealing the historic win for India.
The victory in Cape Town not only leveled the series at 1-1 but also etched its place in the annals of cricket history. This marked only the fifth time that India has won a Test match on South African soil, adding another feather to the cap of Rohit Sharma, who becomes the fourth Indian captain to achieve this feat after Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli.
India’s Test wins in South Africa
By 123 runs – Johannesburg, 2006
By 87 runs – Durban, 2010
By 63 runs – Johannesburg, 2018
By 113 runs – Centurion, 2021
By 7 wickets – Cape Town, 2024
*India is the first Asian team to win a Test match at Newlands, Cape Town.
Shortest completed Test matches (by balls bowled)
642 – SA vs IND, Cape Town, 2024
656 – AUS vs SA, Melbourne, 1932
672 – WI vs ENG, Bridgetown, 1935
788 – ENG vs AUS, Manchester, 1888
792 – ENG vs AUS, Lord’s, 1888
The triumph is a significant turnaround for India, considering South Africa’s convincing win in the series opener in Centurion. This series draw is only the second time in nine attempts that India has left South Africa without losing a Test series, with the previous instance occurring in 2010–11 under MS Dhoni’s captaincy.
The match also marked the end of an era for South African captain Dean Elgar, as he bid farewell to his international career. The post-match scenes were filled with emotion, with players from both teams exchanging handshakes, and Virat Kohli presenting Elgar with a signed Indian jersey as a token of respect.
In what can only be described as one of the craziest Test matches of all time, the clash between India and South Africa at Cape Town will be etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide. The breathtaking twists and turns, coupled with stellar individual performances, have elevated this Test match to legendary status. As the cricketing world catches its breath, one can only anticipate the discussions and analyses that will surround this historic encounter for years to come.