Rohit Sharma delivered a commanding performance in his first outing as an opener, scoring a century to put India in a strong position at 202/0. The match was interrupted by rain in the final session of Wednesday's opening day. This achievement gives Rohit his fourth overall Test century.
On his test debut as an opener Rohit Sharma scored an absorbing century as India reached a score of 202 for the loss of no wicket, when rain prevented any play on the final session on day 1 of the opening test against South Africa on Wednesday. This would be Rohit Sharma’s fourth Test hundred.
Remarkably, Rohit had almost no history of opening in first-class cricket, with his only recent experience being a brief two-ball duck for the Indian Board President’s XI against South Africa just a week prior.
Once he settled in and read the pitch, Rohit didn't hold back, charging down the wicket to smash Maharaj toward long-on and later treating Piedt to a similar fate.
After winning the toss at Vizag, Indian skipper Virat Kohli decided to send his team out to bat first for the series opener.
South Africa's standout performer with the ball was Kagiso Rabada, who showed great discipline by bowling five maidens in his 13 overs on the first day.
The weather looks threatening in Vizag, with rain predicted over the next four days, which could seriously hinder the progression of this first Test.
Earlier, while speaking to the press after the toss, Captain Kohli expressed his support, noting that Rohit was thrilled to have a clear role and that this was a fantastic chance for him to prove himself as an opener.