On this day in 2018, India achieved a remarkable 63-run victory over South Africa in the third Test at Wanderers Stadium, a win that not only prevented a series of whitewash but was also special due to the challenging batting conditions.

Opting to bat first on the tricky Johannesburg pitch, which already showed signs of uneven bounce and excessive seam movement, India managed to score 187 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara contributed 50 runs, while captain Virat Kohli played a crucial knock of 54. The South African bowlers, including Vernon Philander, Kagiso Rabada, and Morne Morkel, made the most of the conditions.

In response, South Africa struggled similarly, with their innings ending at just 194, leaving them with a narrow seven-run lead. Hashim Amla was their top scorer with 61 runs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar led India’s bowling charge with impressive figures of 3 for 44, while Jasprit Bumrah claimed a five-wicket haul.

Gritty innings by Kohli and Rahane

Despite challenging batting conditions, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane showcased exceptional skill and determination in India’s second innings. Kohli scored a crucial 41 runs, while Rahane contributed a fluent 48. Lower down the order, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami added valuable contributions, scoring 33 and 27 runs respectively, before India was bowled out for 247.

Chasing 241 for victory, South Africa lost opener Aiden Markram early. However, Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla put together a resilient 119-run partnership for the second wicket, raising hopes of a successful chase. But once Amla fell for 52, the rest of the South African lineup collapsed. Elgar remained unbeaten on 86 off 240 balls, as wickets fell around him.

Mohammed Shami led the charge with a fiery spell, taking 5 for 28 and breaking the backbone of the hosts' chase. Bumrah and Ishant Sharma provided excellent support, claiming two wickets each. South Africa was bowled out for 177, falling short by 63 runs.

The pitch controversy

The pitch at the Wanderers came under intense scrutiny throughout the match. On day three, play was temporarily halted when Dean Elgar was struck on the helmet by a delivery that bounced dangerously. There were serious concerns about player safety, with many deeming the surface unfit for Test cricket. Despite these challenges, the Indian team pressed on. The ICC later rated the pitch as "poor."

This Test also marked a historic achievement, as it became the first series of three or more matches in which all 40 wickets fell in every game. While India ultimately lost the series 2-1, their victory in Johannesburg will be remembered for their resilience and ability to excel in tough conditions.

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