Bengaluru, India – In a stunning display of batting prowess, South Africa 'A' chased down a formidable target of 417 against India 'A' on the final day of the second unofficial Test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1. The victory, achieved with five wickets in hand, leveled the series 1-1 and showcased the depth of talent within the South African cricketing ranks.
The chase was orchestrated by a series of impressive performances, most notably from Jordan Hermann, whose innings of 91 off 123 balls set a solid foundation. Lesego Senokwane (77), Zubayr Hamza (77), and Temba Bavuma (59) further contributed to the South African cause, maintaining a consistent assault on the Indian bowlers. Connor Esterhuizen's unbeaten 52 off 53 balls, coupled with Tiaan van Vuuren's 20 not out, guided the visitors to victory in 98 overs.
India 'A's bowling attack, featuringTest regulars Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna, struggled to contain the South African batsmen. Krishna was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets, while Siraj, Akash Deep and Kuldeep Yadav managed only one wicket between them in the second innings. The inability of the frontline bowlers to make significant inroads allowed South Africa 'A' to maintain momentum throughout the innings.
Veteran Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has identified Jordan Hermann as a future star after his impressive innings against a formidable Indian attack. Ashwin praised the 23-year-old opener's poise under pressure and fearless intent, acknowledging his rapid progress in South African cricket. "South Africa 'A' led by Jordan Herman are throwing in some punches on day 4 of the Unofficial Test chasing 417. He is batting on 90 against Siraj, Prasidh, Kuldeep and Akash Deep. Whatever happens today, Jordan Herman has made rapid strides in the South African cricket circles. He plays for the SR Eastern Cape in the SA 20," Ashwin wrote on X. Hermann's innings included 13 boundaries and a six, demonstrating his maturity and stroke play. His 156-run opening stand with Senokwane provided the perfect launchpad for the chase.
The South Africa 'A' run chase is the highest ever achieved in 'A' Tests, surpassing the previous record of 412 set by India A against Australia A in Lucknow. The victory is a significant achievement for South African cricket, showcasing the potential of its emerging players against a quality Indian side. This performance has boosted the confidence of the South African squad ahead of the upcoming Test series against India.
