Sharma continues fine run against SA
Opener Rohit Sharma hit his third century of the series to lead India’s charge after they lost early wickets against South Africa on day one of the third Test yesterday.
Sharma, on 117, combined with Ajinkya Rahane, on 83, to put on an unbeaten 185-run stand after the hosts were wobbling at 39-3 following their decision to bat first in Ranchi.
India reached 224 for three when bad light stopped play in the final session.
Sharma and Rahane ensured that India, who have already taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, denied the opposition bowlers any wickets after lunch.
Kagiso Rabada got two early scalps in a fiery morning spell and fellow paceman Anrich Nortje claimed his maiden Test wicket after he trapped India skipper Virat Kohli lbw for 12.
Sharma, who hit twin centuries in his debut game as an opening batsman at the start of the series, then steadied the innings along with Rahane, who completed his 21st Test fifty.
Sharma played it cool to fifty then soon launched an attack with a barrage of sixes, reaching his sixth Test hundred with his fourth hit over the fence.
SCORES IN BRIEF
INDIA: 224 for 3 in 58 overs (Sharma 117 not out, Rahane 83 not out; Rabada 2-54, Nortje 1-50)
Comments