Underfire Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane find support in batting coach Vikram Rathour

Team India batting coach Vikram Rathour believes Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are trying their best to come out of the lean patch. The once again struggled in the ongoing first Test match against South Africa. Pujara bagged a first-ball duck in the first innings and managed to score only 16 runs in the second innings.

Meanwhile, Rahane looked solid in the first innings and got to 48 before giving his wicket away to a harmless delivery of Lungi Ngidi. However, he made little contribution in the second inning. With players like Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari waiting for their chances, questions are being raised on their place in the team. However, Rathour wants the fans to be a bit more patient.

"As far as Pujara and Rahane are concerned, they are trying their best, they are giving their best. Rahane was in really good touch but unfortunately, he got out, so has Pujara," said Rathour in the press conference after the end of Day four's play.

"Pujara in past has played some important innings for us, you see these are challenging conditions, not many people have scored runs here. We need to be patient as long as they are trying their best, giving their best as coaching unit we are fine. Are we getting impatient? Not at this stage, I think," he added.

Speaking about the match, India are in a commanding position at the close of play on Day 4. The visitors' pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah was spot on with their line and lengths and restricted South Africa to 94-4. For the hosts, only opening batter and skipper Dean Elgar looked good. He is currently unbeaten on 52 and will hold the key for South Africa on Day 5.