On the back foot after India took a 130-run lead in the first innings, South African batsman Temba Bavuma on Tuesday said the first session of the fourth day will likely decide the outcome of the game.
Bavuma’s 103-ball 52 for South Africa helped India bundle out South Africa for 197 in the final session on the third day of the first Test here on Tuesday.
“Look, whatever happened, it happened. From the bowling and batting point of view obviously the first session with the ball tomorrow is going to be very important.
“I think the intensity that we brought off the field today in terms of the ball is the intensity that we can achieve.
India vs South Africa: full coverage , photos , the schedule , result
“Hopefully there is an approachable target for the batsmen to chase down. If we can’t chase it for sure, then as batsmen we have to bow down and make it very difficult for the Indian bowlers.”
For India, Mohammed Shami was at his best, scoring 5/44 in 16 overs.
“He is a world class bowler, we have seen him do it around the world. As batsmen, we have to back our defence, come to the fore and cut those soft dismissals. But credit to the bowler if he bowls those wonderful deliveries.”
Read also | Shabaash Sultan of Bengal: Ravi Shastri and others congratulate Mohammed Shami
He further said that India’s bowlers took advantage of the conditions beautifully.
“The wicket on the first day was on the slow side, there was a lot of grass so the pace of the wicket was not exaggerated.
“Today, there was a little sun, the movement was a little challenging. The credit goes to the Indian bowlers led by Shami, they were able to capitalize on that.
“Also credit to their batsmen who really applied themselves and were able to get them into the commanding position on day one,” he added.
get all IPL news and cricket score Here
,