Markram's Unbeaten 97 Puts South Africa in Position of Strength

 Aiden Markram has distinguished himself as a standout performer for Australia in the present Test series between South Africa and that country. With his outstanding 97-run knock in the second Test, Markram gave South Africa the upper hand.

With Markram and Kagiso Rabada at the crease, South Africa resumed their innings on 215 for 8. Before Rabada was caught behind by Pat Cummins, the partnership contributed 27 runs to the total. But Markram kept up his stellar play and batted with the tail to help South Africa reach a solid total of 298.

As a response, Australia got off to a shaky start, losing both of their openers, Marcus Harris and David Warner, for only 12 runs. The Australian batsmen continued to be under pressure from the South African bowlers, headed by Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje, and the visitors eventually found themselves struggling at 84 for 4.

But, Australia's ship was steadied by Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head, who put on a 70-run partnership for the fifth wicket. The momentum shifted back in favour of South Africa when Keshav Maharaj removed Head for 38, just as it appeared that Australia was regaining control of the match.

Australia was 180 for 5 at the end of Day 2's play, remaining 118 runs behind South Africa. Aiden Markram's undefeated 97, which had put South Africa in a strong position, was the day's highlight.

Markram, who had recorded a century in the opening Test, appeared to be in excellent form. He made some beautiful strokes and was particularly harsh on Nathan Lyon, an Australian spinner. The way Markram handled the situation and controlled his aggressive inclinations when necessary was a credit to his development as a batter.

Australia, on the other hand, will aim to capture quick wickets on Day 3 and keep South Africa's score within reach. Also, they will be hopeful that their lower order will be able to score some runs and get them near to South Africa's first innings total.

Nevertheless, with both teams vying for the advantage, it looks like an interesting day of Test cricket. Aiden Markram, whose unbroken 97 has put South Africa in a strong position, is the winner for the time being.

South Africa West Indies West Indies tour of South Africa, 2023