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'Test Is Third On Priority List,' Ex-Batter Bashes Rohit, Kohli, Markram & Others

image-lqywrhixIndia lost last six wickets without adding a single run on Day 1 (AP Photo)

Former Indian cricketer and renowned commentator, Sanjay Manjrekar, attributed the batting collapses on Day 1 of the second Test between India and South Africa in Cape Town to the new-age batting approach. On a day that witnessed 23 wickets falling, all to seamers, India emerged on top, restricting South Africa to 62/3 in their second innings.

After winning the coin toss and opting to bat first, South Africa suffered a dramatic collapse as they were bowled out for a mere 55 runs, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's career-best Test figures of 6/15.

In response, India batted well and were poised to take a huge first innings lead at 153/4, with notable contributions from Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli. However, an unprecedented collapse unfolded as India lost their last six wickets without adding any runs, resulting in a total of 153.

This historical collapse marked the first instance in the 147-year history of Test cricket where a team lost its final six wickets without adding a single run. Manjrekar didn't hesitate to criticize the current generation of batters, suggesting that Test cricket has become the third-choice format for many modern players.

"I think it's got a lot to do with the pitch. It's got a bit to do with the new-age batting that's maybe not focusing on defence as much, understandably because Test cricket has been the third format when it comes to priority. So if there's a bit of life in the pitch, then these things happen. It was almost like the bowlers were wearing a cape in Cape Town," Sanjay Manjrekar told Star Sports.

The 23-wicket haul on Day 1 marked the joint-fifth highest in a single day and the second-highest on an opening day of a Test match. Batters from both sides struggled to perform up to par.

Nevertheless, as the match hangs in the balance, India will aim to quickly dismiss South Africa on Day 2 to prevent the hosts from gaining a substantial lead in their second innings. Given the frequent fall of wickets on the opening day, the match seems poised for an early resolution and may not extend to the third day.