KL Rahul gives an epic reply to Marco Jansen after the Proteas' vain attempt to sledge him- WATCH

On a grueling Day, when it was difficult to pick the trajectory of the ball, KL Rahul emerged as the standout batsman. The right-hander played his natural game at the SuperSport park in centurion, and ended the day with an unbeaten 70. However, the hostile condition of the pitch was not the only challenge that Rahul faced on Day 1 of the 1st India vs South Africa Test.

3 things you need to know

• India vs South Africa 1st Test begun on December 26, 2023
• The match is taking place in Centurion
• India are yet to win a Test series in South Africa

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KL Rahul and Marco Jansen's little back-and-forth during IND vs SA 1st Test

The contest between bat and ball often emanates a battle between a batsman and a bowler and many a times some words get exchanged. Something similar of the sort took place during Day 1 of the 1st IND vs SA Test between KL Rahul and Marco Jansen. As KL Rahul was going rock solid in the middle and left as the final thaw in the needle, bowler Jansen seemingly tried to get under the nerves of KL to break his concentration. However, Rahul handled it with utmost maturity and responded to the pacer with a smile.

KL Rahul stood tall on Day 1 and turned out to be the highest scorer among the Indian batters.

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India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 1: Match Summary

As for the proceedings in the match, disaster struck India in the initial period of the first session. They were three down at the score of 24. Following that Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli steadied the innings but the partnership could not last longer than 68. Iyer got out immediately after the lunch, and shortly afterwards Kohli was also sent back by Rabada. Then Shardul Thakur and KL Rahul got together for a brisk 43-run stand. With some useful chip-ins, Team India was able to cross the 200-run mark. Rain interruption brought an end to the day's play and thus, India will start from 208/8 on Day 2. KL Rahul is the last man standing with an unbeaten 70.