India lose first battle against Proteas

India failed in their effort to save the first Test match at Nagpur against South Africa. India all out for 319 in second innings trailing by 6 runs. South Africa won the match by an innings and 6 runs.

A comprehensive victory for South Africa then as they win the first test by an innings and 6 runs. The Indian batsmen looked all at sea against the Protea fast bowlers, with no batsmen showing the intention of applying himself. It was only Sehwag and Sachin who stepped up to make a big one in each innings. There were no good partnerships in the middle order and as a result India have been subjected to a humiliating defeat in the hands of the No. 2 Test team. Steyn was undoubtedly the pick of the bowlers for SA and he deserves a pat on the back for his 4th 10-wicket haul in tests. Amla and Kallis set up things for SA on Day 1 and 2 and their bowlers backed them up too. The Proteas will have a psychological edge as they go into the second Test at Kolkata.  

SA have now become the No.1 Test side for the moment. India need to win at Kolkata to snap it back from them. It is going to be a riveting Test match coming up in 4 days time. Interestingly this is the 1st loss for Mahendra Singh Dhoni as captain of India in 12 matches.

Hashim Amla has been named the Man of the match for his unbeaten 253.