India are struggling hard loosing 8 wickets in Centurion in rain forced first test against host South Africa. South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada took five wickets. Though a fighting innings by KL Rahul kept Indian hopes alive on the first day of the first Test at SuperSport Park. KL is batting on 70. India were 208 for 8 when bad light followed by rain brought an early close of the day.
Winning the toss South Africa skipper Bavuma decided to bowl first. The conditions after prolonged rain in the days encouraged him to take the decision. Soon Rabada and Burger reduced India to 24 for three. Then Virat Kohli (38) and Shreyas Iyer (31) played a good partnership of 68 runs for the fourth wicket. After that Rabada bowled a great spell. He dismissed both set batters as well as Ravichandran Ashwin. Iyer was bowled. Kohli was caught behind off a superb delivery which swung away late.
Loosing back to back wickets Rahul and Shardul Thakur (24) put on a 43 runs partnership for the seventh wicket. KL is still batting on 70. Without his contribution India could have been in great trouble. Umpires called the stamps early due to bad light and rain. Next day India will try to put on a fighting score on the board.