On this day in 2018, India achieved a remarkable 63-run victory over South Africa in the third Test at Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. The win not only salvaged pride by avoiding a series whitewash but also showcased India’s resilience on one of the most challenging pitches in recent Test history.
A Tough Start on a Treacherous Surface
The Johannesburg pitch was notorious for its uneven bounce and excessive seam movement right from the start. India chose to bat first, but their innings was a struggle as South Africa’s pacers—Vernon Philander, Kagiso Rabada, and Morne Morkel—made the most of the conditions. Despite the odds, Cheteshwar Pujara fought hard for his 50, while skipper Virat Kohli’s gritty 54 added vital runs. The Indian side eventually managed to score 187.
In reply, South Africa also found it difficult to handle the unpredictable surface. Hashim Amla stood out with a composed 61, but the hosts were bundled out for 194, giving them a slender seven-run lead. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was exceptional, taking 3 for 44, while Jasprit Bumrah claimed a five-wicket haul to keep the game evenly poised.
Kohli and Rahane Lead the Charge
In their second innings, India’s batsmen displayed immense determination. Virat Kohli contributed a critical 41 runs, while Ajinkya Rahane’s fluent 48 helped stabilize the innings. Contributions from the lower order—Bhuvneshwar Kumar (33) and Mohammed Shami (27)—pushed India’s total to 247, leaving South Africa with a challenging target of 241 runs.
South Africa’s Collapse
South Africa began their chase on a shaky note, losing opener Aiden Markram early. However, Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla formed a gritty 119-run partnership for the second wicket, giving the hosts hope. Once Amla departed for 52, the innings unraveled rapidly. Elgar stood firm with an unbeaten 86 off 240 deliveries, but the rest of the lineup crumbled.
Mohammed Shami delivered a devastating spell, taking 5 for 28 to dismantle South Africa’s middle and lower order. Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma supported with two wickets each, as South Africa were bowled out for 177, falling 63 runs short of the target.
The Pitch Controversy
The Wanderers pitch drew significant criticism throughout the match for its dangerous nature. On the third day, play was temporarily stopped after Dean Elgar was struck on the helmet by a sharply rising delivery, sparking concerns over player safety. Some even deemed the surface unfit for Test cricket. Despite the risks, the Indian team insisted on continuing the game. The ICC later rated the pitch as “poor.”
A Historic Test
This Test match marked a unique achievement in cricket history, as it was the first series of three or more matches where all 40 wickets fell in each game. Although India lost the series 2-1, the victory in Johannesburg remains a testament to their ability to adapt and excel under extreme conditions, making it one of their most memorable wins in Test cricket.
