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[Saba Sports News] On the opening day of the first Test at SuperSport Park, Centurion, South Africa gained the upper hand, restricting India to 208/8. Kagiso Rabada was the standout performer, claiming his 14th career five-wicket haul. Debutant Nandre Burger also made a significant impact with figures of 2/50 in 15 overs.
Burger, a left-arm seamer, marked his Test debut memorably by dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal and then quickly taking the wicket of Shubman Gill, strangling him down the leg side. His performance earned him commendation from former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen.
Pietersen praised Burger’s pace but advised him to exhibit less friendliness and more aggression on the field. “Bowl fast, seriously fast and DO NOT smile after most deliveries,” Pietersen remarked on his X account, emphasizing the psychological aspect of bowling.
Reflecting on his experiences, Pietersen referenced his encounters with ex-Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson during the Ashes 2013-14. He noted Johnson’s lack of smiles and intense bowling that led to his haul of 37 wickets in the series, terrorizing the English batsmen.
Meanwhile, Burger has been making a name for himself in cricket, impressing experts with his performances. He holds a T20 career average of 21.42 and an economy rate of 7.40. The 28-year-old’s growing reputation was further bolstered by his recent acquisition by Rajasthan Royals for INR 50 Lakh during the IPL 2024 auction.