South Africa dominated the first Test at Centurion and have secured a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series. The stand in skipper Dean Elgar’s outstanding innings of 185 contributed to South Africa’s total of 408 runs. In reply their bowling bowled out strong looking Indian batting lineup for 245 and 131 runs, sealing a substantial victory.
The former Pakistan captain, Salman Butt suggested that India should have opted for Arshdeep Singh instead of Prasidh Krishna or Shardul Thakur in their Test squad. South Africa secured a comprehensive victory over India, winning by an innings and 32 runs at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. This victory meant that India will not be able to win the series. The best possible result for them is levelling series 1-1.
On his YouTube channel, Butt expressed his opinion that, rather than selecting Shardul or Prasidh, India might have included Arshdeep in the squad, emphasizing that he could have been impactful in Centurion. Shardul gave away 101 runs in 19 overs, and Prasidh conceded 93 runs in 20 overs, each picking up a wicket in the first Test.
“Instead of playing Prasidh Krishna or Shardul Thakur, it would have been better if India they picked Arshdeep Singh in the squad. He bowls over 135 kph and also swings the ball both ways. He might have been effective in the Test. Prasidh Krishna and Shardul Thakur gave a lot of easy boundary balls,” said Butt.
I am sure Rohit is over the World Cup final loss: Salman Butt
The former Pakistan skipper also laid his opinions about Rohit Sharma. Butt mentioned that Rohit is a seasoned player approaching the end of his career with numerous achievements. Butt also remarked that since it was a final and India couldn’t win, that’s the conclusion. He expressed confidence that Rohit has moved past the World Cup final loss.
“I don’t think so. It’s a different game. Rohit is a seasoned player who is nearing the end of his career and has a lot of achievements. It was a final, and India could not win; that’s it. I am sure he is over the World Cup final loss,” Butt added.
