New Delhi: In January this year, AB de Villiers smashed a record 31-ball century in a one-day international (ODI) against the West Indies. On Day Four of the fourth Test between India and South Africa, he took 33 balls to get off the mark. That sums up the South African approach here. Set a target of 481 by India, South Africa blocked almost everything, finishing the day on 72-2 off their 72 overs.


Umesh Yadav

"I can tell you (that) this kind of cricket can be very boring," said Umesh Yadav. South Africa's crawl may have eclipsed the Indian start, which was largely memorable. Virat Kohli was dismissed early, missing a century at his home ground by 12 runs. The focus then shifted on Ajinkya Rahane, who started attacking the bowlers. The highlight of his innings was a ramp over third-man which went all the way. In his 80s, he hit two more sixes. Once he got his century, Kohli declared.

South Africa's defence
Dean Elgar was dismissed early as Ravichandran Ashwin induced the edge to first slip. Skipper Hashim Amla's arrival then made South Africa's dour intentions clear. It took him 46 balls to get off the mark. When compared to him, Temba Bavuma (34) played a brisk knock and even managed to hit Ashwin for a six over the leg-side.


South African skipper Hasim Amla defends a delivery on Day Four of the fourth Test against India at Feroz Shah Kotla in New Delhi yesterday. Pic/PTI