Dean Elgar’s innings of 86 not out in volatile conditions at the Wanderers is our Play of the Day.

India beat South Africa by 63 runs in the third Test at the Wanderers. The bowlers – Mohammed Shami in particular, who finished with 5-28 in the second innings – deserve praise for the part they played in the face-saving result. The series finished 2-1 in South Africa’s favour.

India did not win their battle with Elgar, though. The South African opener occupied the crease for 240 balls and nearly six hours. He sustained numerous blows to the hands, chest, and even to the head.

At the end of the game, he was still standing, unbeaten on 86.

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Elgar was struck on the grill by a short delivery late on day three. He removed his helmet immediately after the incident. He looked rattled.

Elgar came into day four with a different attitude. He was struck several times on the body when the ball exploded off a length. At no point did he appear rattled, though.

Elgar and Hashim Amla put on 119 runs for the second wicket. Both looked to combat the late movement. Both were quick to punish the poor deliveries.

It was a brave and measured performance that may have received more praise if the Proteas had gone on to win the game.

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix