Rohit Sharma did not just halt India's search for a new opener but also oversaw a remarkable turnaround to his Test career with a record-breaking series against South Africa. India thrashed South Africa 3-0 to complete a sensational Test series whitewash - their first over the Proteas - and further strengthen their stay at the top of the ICC World Test Championship points table. Rohit, who was adjudged the Man of the Match - in the 3rd Test - as well as the Man of the Series for his spectacular performances throughout the series, smashed a slew of records to become the highest-scoring India batsmen in a Test series against South Africa. Take a look at the top five run-getters of the three-match Test series.

India stepped into the India vs South Africa Test series after thrashing West Indies 2-0 in their own backyard. However, the hosts faced a big blow as the team’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah got ruled out of the series due to a back injury. On the other hand, the South African side were starting off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championships. The Proteas are going through a transition phase and want to groom their youngsters. However, India are the number one ranked Test side in the world and defeating them in their fortress was never going to be easy for the Faf du Plessis led side.

Most Runs in the India vs South Africa 2019 Test Series:

S.No Name Innings Runs Average 50 100 200
1. Rohit Sharma 5 529 132.25 0 2 1
2. Mayank Agarwal 4 340 85.00 0 1 1
3. Virat Kohli 4 317 158.50 0 0 1
4. Dean Elgar 6 232 46.40 0 1 0
5. Ajinkya Rahane 4 216 72.00 1 1 0

 

The last time these two teams locked horns in a Test Series was when India toured South Africa in 2018. The series consisted of three matches, which produced some great battle between the willow and the red cherry. The hosts eventually won the series by 2-0 but the batting chart was led by Indian skipper Virat Kohli. The right-handed batsman piled up 286 runs in six innings with an average of over 47. For South Africa, Ab de Villiers was the highest run-scorer with 211 runs in six outings.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 22, 2019 10:51 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).