During the SA vs IND match, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar lauded Dean Elgar for achieving his 14th Test century in his farewell series. Manjrekar praised Elgar’s bold approach, noting that he played with a sense of having nothing to lose. Elgar’s exceptional century on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test at SuperSport Park in Centurion marked a fantastic beginning to his farewell series against India.
Despite challenging overcast conditions, the southpaw demonstrated remarkable form in the match held on Wednesday, December 28, where he declared his retirement following the two-match series against India.
After Aiden Markram’s early departure, Elgar took charge of South Africa’s innings, achieving his 14th Test century in just 140 balls. This milestone was reached on the first delivery of the 43rd over, skillfully sending Shardul Thakur’s delivery over long-on.
In a discussion on ESPN cricinfo, Manjrekar clarified that the Protea batsman adopted a more relaxed mindset during the game. He praised Elgar for his astute shot selection and the strategic construction of his innings.
Follow Sports 360 Degrees on Facebook!
“When you decide to retire and play your final matches, there’s a different mindset where your thoughts are more at ease, and there’s nothing to lose. We saw the essence of traditional Test batting from Dean Elgar,” observed Manjrekar.
“At first, he took a cautious approach, leaving numerous deliveries outside the off-stump. Once he settled, he identified the bowlers struggling at the crease and capitalized on Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur. Whether it was the drive, pull-shot, or even the cover-drives, each shot was executed with careful intent. Dean Elgar, we’ll miss him, and when someone of such caliber decides to retire, it sometimes makes us question why it’s referred to as a time to wind-up,” Manjrekar added.
ALSO READ:
- Salt’s Consecutive Centuries Secure Series Draw for England
- India vs. South Africa 2nd ODI: Arshdeep Breaks Record
- Australia Clinches Victory Over India in Cricket World Final 2023
