India strike back after bundling out for 215 in Nagpur Test

India produced a spirited comeback as they removed two South African batsmen after being bundled out for 215 on the opening day of the third Test against the tourists in Nagpur on Wednesday.

South Africa were reduced to 11 for two in their first innings at stumps after the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja claimed a wicket apiece on a dry, dusty pitch at the Vidharba Cricket Association stadium.

Stiaan van Zyl (0) and Imran Tahir (4) were dismissed cheaply, while Hashim Amla and Dean Elgar (7 not out) will resume their innings tomorrow.

Earlier, off-spinner Simon Harmer and fast bowler Morne Morkel bamboozled Indians as the duo shared seven wickets between themselves.

India were reeling at 125-6 before Wriddhiman Saha (32) and Ravindra Jadeja (34) steadied the ship by building a 48-run partnership for the seventh wicket.

Opener Murali Vijay was the top scorer for the hosts with 40.

India are aiming to seal the series after losing the preceding T20 and ODI series against South Africa. The hosts are currently leading the four-match series 1-0 following their 108-run win in the first Test in Mohali.

The second match between the two sides ended in a draw due to persistent rain and wet outfield.