Sanjay Manjrekar feels that India had the best chance to win a series against the Proteas in South Africa in the just-concluded series and make history. India had lost the 1st Test but returned well to win the 2nd one and level the series.
Sanjay Manjrekar was praised for the Indian effort coming from behind to level the series. While appreciating the efforts of the Indian team, Sanjay Manjrekar was candid enough to say that India missed out. He states that the present South African team has been the weakest team shielded by the Proteas for a long time.
India had the best chance to win a series
India had the batting and bowling strength to win the two Tests. On paper, they were a much stronger side with many experienced players. South African lineup was low on Test experience, barring a couple of players.
Dean Elgar was the X-factor
He gave it his all in the first Test and made a memorable 185 runs, which proved to be the key factor in South Africa defeating India by an innings. None of the other batters left any impression on the scoreboard. Sanjay Manjrekar is right when he calls it a missed opportunity.
India missed out on chances
India would look back on the errors in judgement during the 1st Test match. The key one was not using Bumrah at the right time. The long rope given to Elgar proved costly for the team. Elgar made it a memorable series for himself.
Until next time
Proteas remain the unconquered land. India will have to wait for the next series. Until then, let’s hope.
“This was the most beatable South African team”- Sanjay Manjrekar feels India will regret not winning the Test series, in a chat with ESPNCricinfo.