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In the first Test match between India and South Africa at Centurion, KL Rahul showcased a stellar performance, securing his eighth Test century and etching his name in the record books. Choosing to bat after losing the toss, the Indian team faced a challenging first inning, posting a total of 245 runs. KL Rahul played a crucial role, contributing a remarkable 101 runs, outshining his fellow batsmen.
During his innings, Rahul faced 137 deliveries, delivering an impressive display with 14 boundaries and 4 sixes. What sets his performance apart is the fact that he accumulated 79.20% of his runs through boundaries and sixes, making him the third-highest among Indian batsmen achieving a Test century with such dominance.
Notably, Rahul's century in Centurion marked his second consecutive Test century at this venue. In the Boxing Day Test of 2021, he had scored 122 runs, playing a pivotal role in India's victory. This accomplishment establishes him as the first visiting batsman with more than one Test century at SuperSport Park, Centurion, joining the elite club of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.
Rahul's proficiency in South Africa extends beyond Centurion, as he becomes the third Indian batsman, after Tendulkar and Kohli, to score multiple centuries in the Rainbow Nation. His record of the highest individual Test score by an Indian opener in South Africa further cements his status as a standout performer.
In the context of Test centuries achieved through boundaries, Rahul stands as the third-highest among Indian batsmen, with Shikhar Dhawan and VVS Laxman leading the chart. His contribution to India's success in Centurion and his consistent excellence in South Africa highlight KL Rahul's prowess and establish him as a key player in the Indian cricket Team.
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What is the historical significance that makes the Boxing Day Test so special?
Boxing Day, observed on December 26, has its roots in a tradition that granted servants a day off to celebrate Christmas. In a gesture of appreciation, masters would present their servants with a special Christmas box. Over time, this practice evolved into a widely recognized holiday, marked by festivities and, notably, the Boxing Day Test in the cricketing world.
Since 1980, the Boxing Day Test has become a staple in Australia's cricket calendar. This prestigious fixture, held annually in Melbourne, features Australia facing off against a touring side. The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground serves as the battleground for this cricketing spectacle.
The tradition has transcended borders, with South Africa and New Zealand also adopting the Boxing Day Test tradition. These nations have embraced the spirit of the day, showcasing their cricketing prowess in matches that capture the attention of fans worldwide. The Boxing Day Test has thus become a symbol of camaraderie and competition, blending the joyous spirit of the holiday season with the excitement of international cricket.
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The Connection Between KL Rahul and Boxing Day Test Matches :
Rahul started his Test career during the 2014/15 Boxing Day match at the MCG Down Under. Despite modest scores of 3 and 1, he unveiled his potential by smashing a century in the subsequent Test at the SCG. Subsequently, during India's next tour to Australia in 2020/21, he was absent from the Boxing Day Test but made a notable comeback by achieving a century during the corresponding match in South Africa in 2021/22. Once again, Rahul demonstrated his exceptional skills and resilience during this period, solidifying his reputation as a dependable and adaptable cricketer.
His journey from an uncertain debut to a century in his second Test exemplifies his ability to bounce back and thrive under pressure. This resilience was further demonstrated by his remarkable performance in the subsequent Boxing Day Test in South Africa, where he once again displayed his mettle and contributed significantly to India's success.
KL Rahul's Remarkable Records in Boxing Day Test :
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1. A Special Century in Centurion, 2021:
- During the 2021/22 Boxing Day Test in South Africa, KL Rahul notched his seventh Test century on the opening day, guiding India to victory.
- Rahul's 123 in the first innings marked the highest individual Test score by an Indian opener in South Africa, joining Wasim Jaffer in this elite club.
2. Multiple Test Tons in South Africa:
- Two years later, Rahul became the third Indian to achieve multiple centuries in South Africa, scoring a brilliant 101 in the 1st innings at Centurion.
- His innings featured 14 fours and 4 sixes, adding to his impressive record in Test cricket.
3. Stats in Boxing Day Tests:
- Having participated in three Boxing Day Tests, Rahul has amassed 251 runs from five innings, maintaining an average of 50.20.
- Notable scores include 123, 101, contributing significantly to India's success on the grand stage.
4. First Visiting Batter with Two Test Tons in Centurion:
- Rahul secured a unique distinction as the first visiting batter to achieve more than one Test century at the SuperSport Park, Centurion.
- Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are the only other Indian batters to have achieved this feat at the venue.
5. Most Test Runs by a Visiting Batter in Centurion:
- With a total of 261 runs from five innings at an average of 52.20, Rahul now holds the record for the most runs by a visiting batter at SuperSport Park, Centurion, in Test cricket.
- Kohli closely follows with 249 runs, further solidifying Rahul's exceptional performance at the prestigious venue.
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