Centurion erupted in joy on Thursday as South Africa demolished India by an innings and 32 runs in the first Test, silencing doubters and securing their first home victory over the world’s top-ranked side since 2010.
Dean Elgar, in his final Test series before retirement, crafted a majestic 185, anchoring South Africa’s first innings to a commanding 408. Marco Jansen then stole the show with a career-best 84 not out, leaving India’s bowlers thoroughly frustrated.
The Proteas’ pace attack then turned the screws on India, dismissing them for a meager 131 in just 34.1 overs. Nandre Burger, on his Test debut, tore through the Indian batting with a sensational four-wicket haul, adding to his first-innings tally of three. Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada chipped in with crucial wickets to complete the demolition.
“This win is massive for us,” beamed South African coach Shukri Conrad. “Not only is it a stunning victory, but it ensures India have never beaten us in a Test series here. We’ve shown the world what we’re capable of when we play at home.”
Conrad, appointed earlier this year, hailed the team’s unity and resilience. “A lot of the focus has been on freeing these players up, allowing them to express themselves,” he explained. “We’ve been questioned about our talent, but today we answered loud and clear.”
He added, “Sometimes we tend to underappreciate our own players, focusing too much on overseas stars. But this team is phenomenal, and we have a plan for the future.”
The victory marks South Africa’s third consecutive Test win under Conrad, putting an end to a five-match winless streak. For India, captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged the defeat as a harsh lesson.
“It was a very upsetting loss,” Rohit admitted. “The difference between winning and losing at Test level comes down to mindset. We have some young players, and they need to develop the right mental approach and game plans.”
He highlighted KL Rahul’s first-innings century as a shining example of adapting to conditions and showing discipline. “There’s a fine line between intent and responsibility,” Rohit stated. “Jasprit Bumrah bowled brilliantly, but he needed support at the other end, which we couldn’t provide. Hopefully, this will be a valuable learning experience for our bowling unit.”
With the series poised at 1-0, the focus now shifts to Newlands in Cape Town, where the second and final Test begins on Wednesday. Both teams will be looking to bounce back and claim the coveted series title.