Centurion, Dec 27 (Agency) The second day’s play of the first Test between India and South Africa had to be called off without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain here on Monday. The start of the match, which was scheduled at 1:30 pm IST, was delayed due to rain. It had rained overnight and continued to drizzle in the morning too. The rain stopped twice and the umpires decided on inspection but on both the occasions the heavens opened up again.
An early lunch break was taken after most of the first session was washed off but the rain ultimately forced the umpires to call off the day’s play. India were 272/3 at stumps on the opening day, with KL Rahul on 122 not out and Ajinkya Rahane unbeaten on 40. A 117-run opening partnership between Rahul and Mayank Agarwal set the tone of the match for India before South Africa fought back. Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets but Rahul and Rahane kept ticking the score board.