NEW DELHI: Indian batsman KL Rahul attributed India’s outstanding turnaround within the second Test in opposition to South Africa to a “mental shift” after dropping the opening match.
India clinched a seven-wicket victory in Cape Town inside two days, leveling the two-match collection in a memorable draw.

‘We weren’t 100% in Centurion’

Reflecting on the defeat in Centurion, the place India misplaced by an innings and 32 runs, Rahul acknowledged the group lacked the “extra fire” and confidence required for achievement.
He credited South Africa for not permitting India to seek out their rhythm.

“I think we weren’t really 100 per cent during our last match in terms of batting or bowling. We were prepared, but that extra edge or extra fire was missing, credit to South Africa as well, that they didn’t allow us to reach that confidence,” mentioned the 31-year-old in an interview with ‘Star Sports’.

How Team India regrouped for Cape Town Test
Rahul appreciated the group’s skill to shortly regroup and implement a change in planning and angle for the second Test.
Despite being ready for the primary match, the sudden defeat prompted a psychological shift, and Rahul highlighted the group’s dedication to bounce again.
“There was a little bit of change in planning and attitude only. I mean we can’t say that we weren’t ready during the last Test match. We were ready but there are situations where the opposition really blasts you out of the Test match or we are not used to it,” Rahul defined.

Centurion defeat a giant setback
The batsman emphasised India’s sturdy document in Test cricket over the previous 4-5 years and the group’s dedication to competing and profitable collection exterior of India.
He acknowledged the defeat in Centurion as a big setback however counseled the group’s resilience and dedication to excel in Test cricket.
‘We had been extra prepared’
“…it was just a mental shift during the turnaround time of one day. We were more ready this time and we were ready for a fight. We wanted to get this win and just do our job really well,” Rahul added.
Having confronted criticism for his or her efficiency within the first Test, India’s sturdy comeback showcased their psychological toughness and readiness for a battle, setting the stage for an exhilarating collection conclusion.

(With inputs from PTI)