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'Indians Are Difficult' - Dean Elgar Reflects On His Batting Masterclass vs India

image-lqpe33c3Dean Elgar (Source: AP Photo)

One of the finest knocks of his international career came in the final series that he is playing; Dean Elgar took everyone by surprise when he suddenly announced his retirement before the India series. However, he didn't let anyone down as the opener fought his way to an incredible 185 in harsh conditions, as the pitch wasn't the best to spend time on.

His runs were a monumental effort of the persistence and grit that was again on display as he has been through the length of his career, although this innings was a lot more free-flowing.

Speaking during the post-match presentation, the southpaw expressed his contentment after smashing his second-highest individual Test score and reckoned that he was able to play well by employing the play late tactics on this wicket. Further, his partnerships with different batters came good for the side as they were able to pile up runs.

"Pretty special knock. Sometimes what we want to do hasn't worked out as planned, but happy that it worked today. I think you need to keep things nice and simple, the game is already pretty complex. Focus on the ball, play nice and straight. Play late and be great. You got to ride the roller when it is in your favour. Good partnerships with Tony, and then Jansen showed his talent as well. You need fast bowlers and a spinner potentially to take 20 wickets, that's how we win Test matches. KG was brilliant, but then Nandre showed why he has been such a shining light for South African cricket,"

Elgar ascertained that this victory was hard-earned, considering Indians are tough to beat in any format. Adding to it, he claimed that their fielding wasn't the best, and they need to focus on that aspect in the upcoming game.

"First few days were overcast, and close to a sellout. Crowds don't need much motivation to come out and watch their cricket or rugby in Pretoria. You can't win a 2 Test series if you don't win the first one, the Indians are difficult to beat. We'll have a few days out to relax and enjoy this. We were pretty clinical, our fielding wasn't the best and we didn't make it too easy for ourselves at times."

Focusing on the game, India had to face embarrassment after they were bundled out for just 131, which meant the Rohit Sharma-led side had to accept an innings defeat by 32 runs, which was enough to puncture their confidence. However, they will now look to make a comeback when these two sides meet in the second Test to be played in Cape Town from 3rd January.