Subramaniam Badrinath calls for Virat Kohli reinstation as Test captain following Centurion defeat

The Boxing Day festivities at SuperSport Park turned into a one-sided affair as South Africa utterly thrashed India by an innings and 32 runs in the first Test match. In what many have called a masterclass in fast bowling, the Proteas exposed India’s vulnerabilities on a bouncy Centurion pitch, leaving the tourists staring at a potential series defeat.

Right from the outset, the South African pace attack, led by the fiery Kagiso Rabada and debutant Nandre Burger, turned up the heat. The Indian top order, boasting of seasoned campaigners, failed to find their rhythm. Yet, they managed to score a respectable 245 in the first innings thanks to a magnificent century by KL Rahul. The home team, in stark contrast, revelled in the conditions. Dean Elgar scored a masterful 185 in what was his penultimate Test match. David Bedingham and Marco Jansen scored crucial half-centuries as the Proteas posted a total of 408 to solidify their control of the game.

India’s woes continued in the second innings as they were bowled out for just 131. Virat Kohli was the lone batter who showed application, making 76 before falling to Jansen. South Africa thus secured a resounding victory with more than two days remaining in the Test. The performance was clinical, dominant, and a testament to the home team’s superior adaptation to the challenging conditions.

Badrinath questions leadership

In the wake of India’s recent defeat, Subramaniam Badrinath has sparked debate by questioning Rohit Sharma‘s leadership credentials. On his YouTube channel, Badrinath suggested that Virat Kohli should be the captain of the side, highlighting the former skipper’s impressive captaincy record and batting performance.

“Why isn’t Virat Kohli the Test team captain? He’s a better Test batter than Rohit. Why is a weaker player leading instead of him? Although Rohit Sharma has been in and out, he’s a big player and has scored runs everywhere. But he hasn’t proven himself as an opener outside India. So, why is he there?” he said.

In response to Badrinath’s suggestion, some fans countered that Kohli’s resignation two years ago should be respected and the focus shifted towards the current leader. They emphasized that the recent defeat involved collective failures by both batsmen and bowlers, leaving even a skilled captain with limited options.