In the riveting clash between South Africa and India during the first test match, the third day witnessed a spectacle that will be etched in cricketing history. As of this moment, South Africa stands at a formidable 397/8 wickets in the first innings, securing a commanding lead of 152 runs over India. The primary architect of this dominance is none other than the resilient batsman, Dean Elgar.
On a pitch that generously favored the seamers, Elgar exhibited a batting masterclass, scoring a phenomenal 185 runs off 287 balls. This remarkable performance occurred in what can only be described as a swan song – Elgar’s final game at his home ground in Centurion. Facing the relentless challenge posed by the seaming track, Elgar’s innings showcased not just skill but sheer determination.
Elgar’s innings wasn’t just about survival; it was about dominance. He maneuvered the challenging pitch with finesse, dispatching the ball to the boundary rope a staggering 28 times. Each four was a testament to his ability to read the conditions, find the gaps, and capitalise on any loose deliveries. It was a spectacle that left the spectators in awe and India grappling for answers.
However, every great inning has its end, and Elgar’s was no exception. The turning point came in a manner most unexpected—a bizarre delivery down the leg side. A seemingly harmless back-of-length ball became the culprit, as Elgar, looking to let it pass, found his gloves protruding ever so slightly. The ball grazed past, heading to the keeper, signalling the conclusion of a superb knock.
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Elgar’s departure, though unconventional, was met with a well-deserved standing ovation from the crowd. His marathon innings had not only put South Africa in the driver’s seat but had also etched his name in the cricketing annals. The Centurion faithful bid farewell to their hometown hero with a mixture of appreciation and regret, acknowledging the rarity of witnessing such a remarkable innings.
[Watch] Dean Elgar Gets A Standing Ovation After His Marathon Knock Against India In Centurion
![[Watch] Dean Elgar Gets A Standing Ovation After His Marathon Knock Against India In Centurion](https://thecricketlounge.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dean-elgar.webp)
Magnificent 185 by Dean Elgar
We all were willing him on for that double century, but his knock has been worth even more on this pitch#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/AgC7DOTCu8
— Werner (@Werries_) December 28, 2023
