Former South Africa Test captain Dean Elgar is playing his Test series before retirement from international cricket. The ongoing two-match Test series at home against India is his last series. Before the series, Elgar announced his retirement and potentially will play for Essex in the County Season 2024. Meanwhile, in the ongoing first Test, the left-hander has made the most of his penultimate game.
After the Asian side managed 245 runs, thanks to KL Rahul’s hundred, the home team lost the wicket of Aiden Markram early. Apart from stitching partnerships with Tony de Zorzi (93-run partnership) and debutant David Bedingham (132-run partnership), the former Test captain remains unbeaten at 140 off 211 balls. However, late wickets ensured the game hangs in balance with the Proteas having a lead of 11 runs and five wickets in hand.
I don’t think I wanted to prove any point: Dean Elgar
Elgar, after the end of the play, said that he didn’t want to prove a point but rather wanted to bow out with a bang
“I don’t think I wanted to prove any point. Just that I wanted to go out with a bang as that is standard I set for myself as there’s no looking back now,” Elgar said about his 14th hundred.
The 36-year-old added that the wicket was good to bat on and the batters need to score runs but also defend good bowling.
“It was quite a good wicket to bat on. Had there been more sun, it would have been tougher. It’s just that it’s been my way. Could have been another batter another day.” Normally known for his defensive dogged approach, Elgar wanted to look to score runs.
“Your mindset has to be looking to score but also defend and leave balls. There’s one ball with your name on it jags back. When you look to score, you are in a better position to make good decisions, and capitalize on over-pitched balls.”
