NEW DELHI: The second Test between India and South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town witnessed an action-packed opening day, setting multiple records and providing cricket enthusiasts with a gripping spectacle.
Here's a recap of the records broken on Day 1 of the second Test:
Historic Wicket Fall: A total of 23 wickets tumbled on the first day, marking the second-highest number of wickets falling on the opening day of a Test match. The record of 25 wickets falling in a day dates back to an Australia versus England Test in 1902.
India's Unique Collapse: W0W0W00W0WW! India made cricket history by becoming the first team to lose six wickets in a row without adding a single run. This unprecedented collapse occurred when India, at one point, stood at a comfortable 153/4.
Duck Parade Equals Record: During their innings, India recorded a remarkable six ducks, equalling the highest number of ducks in a single Test innings by a team. This record was previously shared by Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh, and New Zealand.
Siraj's Fiery Spell: Mohammed Siraj emerged as the hero of the day with a career-best performance, claiming a remarkable 6/15 in South Africa's first innings. His sublime display of pace and precision wreaked havoc on the Proteas' top and middle order.
Ngidi's Three-Wicket Over: Lungi Ngidi's exceptional three-wicket over for South Africa turned the game on its head, causing India's batting collapse from a promising 153/4 to 153 all out in a mere 11 balls.
South Africa's Top-Order Struggle: Opting to bat first, South Africa faced a challenging session, getting bundled out for just 55 runs in 23.2 overs. Apart from Kyle Verreynne (15) and David Bedingham (12), the Proteas' batting lineup crumbled against India's relentless bowling attack.
South Africa's Lowest Total: The total of South Africa, 55 all out, was their lowest ever against India in the longest-format of the game.
1/10:2nd Test: India in control after wickets tumble in Cape Town
Reuters2/10:Record-breaking wickets fall
23 wickets fell on the first day of the second and final Test at Newlands on Wednesday.Getty Images3/10:Mohammed Siraj's sensational spell
<p>Mohammed Siraj produced a sensational career-best spell of six for 15 as South Africa were bowled out for 55 before lunch after choosing to bat first.</p>Reuters4/10:South Africa's lowest total in 92 years
South Africa's total was their lowest in almost 92 years, since they were bowled out for 36 and 45 by Australia in February 1932.AFP5/10:India take commanding lead
<p>India cruised into the lead in 9.4 overs, before the afternoon drinks break.</p>AFP6/10:Dramatic collapse of Indian batting
The tourists seemed set for a substantial advantage when they reached 153 for four. But the remaining six wickets fell for no runs in 11 balls.AFP7/10:Elgar's disappointing farewell
Stand-in South African captain Dean Elgar was dismissed twice on the first day of his final Test match.AFP8/10:Aiden Markram's resilience
Aiden Markram made just two in the first innings but was more in command in the second innings and was unbeaten on 36 at the close.AFP9/10:South Africa lead the series 1-0
South Africa won the first Test in Centurion by an innings and 32 runs in a match which lasted only three days.Reuters10/10:Anticipation for a shorter match
The second Test match is expected to be shorter, adding to the excitement.AFPQuickest To 10 Wickets: 23.2 overs taken by India to pick up 10 wickets is a new record for them after 25.1 overs they took to bowl out SA in Jo'burg in 2006.
Elgar's Forgettable Farewell: Dean Elgar is only the 2nd player after Jack Barrett of Australia in 1890 to be dismissed twice on the same day of his last Test.
Aiden Markram's Resilience: Aiden Markram emerged as the standout performer for South Africa in their second innings, finishing the day unbeaten with a resilient knock of 36. His contribution holds significance as South Africa reached 62/3 by the end of the day.
The chaotic yet historic day sets the stage for an enthralling continuation of the Test match, leaving cricket fans eagerly anticipating the unfolding drama at Newlands.