IND vs SA | Twitter reacts as struggling Kohli acknowledges Axar's support after Maharaj takedown

Winning the toss and electing to bat first, India’s good-looking start was dwarfed by Keshav Maharaj’s new ball spell as he outsmarted Rohit Sharma and Rishab Pant in the second over. With Suryakumar Yadav following them back to the dugout inside the powerplay, Axar Patel was promoted to No. 5 to stabilise the situation with Virat Kohli. One of the prime highlights of the right-left combination was a six off Axar that earned Kohli’s approval in the ninth over. 

After three singles to kick off the ninth over, a tossed-up delivery from Maharaj yielded a six in favour of India. Axar bent on his knees and got to the pitch of the ball as he connected the white rock off the middle of the bat in an attempt of a slog sweep. Seeing the intent from the southpaw, Kohli from the non-striker’s end gestured with a thumbs up towards Axar. Looking at the quality of the stroke, even Maharaj, the bowler was seen amazed, thereby sending the Twitterverse into a frenzy.

Bapu rocking!

You rocked it

Big key

LOL

Much needed

Iconic

Clutch

Salute

All rounder for a reason

Violent Bapu