In a high-stakes encounter throughout Day 3 of the 1st Test between South Africa and India at Centurion, veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin stirred up the cricketing world by issuing a Mankad warning to South African batter Marco Jansen. The incident added a dramatic twist to an already riveting match, with Ashwin selecting to problem a warning slightly than execute the controversial run-out. Known for his daring stance on Mankading, Ashwin had a second of determination throughout the 98th over. With Jansen leaving the crease prematurely, Ashwin halted his bowling motion, making a palpable rigidity on the sphere. However, in a shocking flip, Ashwin avoided finishing the Mankad, opting as a substitute for a mushy warning. This transfer by the Tamil Nadu off-spinner showcased a strategic restraint, paying homage to the IPL 2019 controversy involving Jos Buttler.
Ashwin has given Jansen a mankad warning __ #SAvsIND pic.twitter.com/styPVes3Mu
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) December 28, 2023
Proteas Dominate, Elgar Shines:
On the broader spectrum of the match, South Africa asserted their dominance as they cast forward to a pole place. Starting the day at 256-5, Dean Elgar’s unbeaten 140 propelled the Proteas, who constructed a wholesome lead. The veteran opener, in collaboration with Jansen, added one other essential 100 runs. However, Elgar fell agonizingly in need of a double-hundred, succumbing to a fast bouncer from Shardul Thakur.
Indian Fightback and KL Rahul’s Grit:
Despite the Proteas’ robust efficiency, India showcased resilience, led by KL Rahul’s gritty century. The Indian opener’s decided knock of 101 rejuvenated the guests after early strain from the South African bowlers. However, the Indian bowling unit struggled to match the sharpness wanted to include the Proteas, permitting them to determine management.
Ashwin’s History with ‘Mankad’:
Ashwin’s Mankad warning to Jansen will not be the primary occasion of the off-spinner being concerned in such incidents. In 2012, he ran out Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Thirimanne for backing up too far, and the controversial episode with Jos Buttler in 2019 stays etched in cricketing historical past.
