India Fight Back As South Africa Reach 247/6 On Day 1
On the opening day of the second Test between India and South Africa in Guwahati, the visitors reached 247 for 6 at stumps after electing to bat first. India, trailing 0-1 in the two-match series, found themselves under pressure early when South Africa’s openers built a solid platform with an 82-run stand.
India Strike Late To Regain Foothold
India’s fight-back was led by spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who took 3 wickets for 48 runs. He removed key players including Tristan Stubbs (49) and Wiaan Mulder (13) in the final session as South Africa’s momentum stalled. In addition, Ravindra Jadeja claimed the wicket of captain Temba Bavuma (41), and pacer Mohammed Siraj trapped Tony de Zorzi (28) just before stumps. The turnaround brought India back into contention after conceding a strong start.
Pitch Conditions And Match Context
The match, which is being played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, featured an unusual scheduling of tea before lunch due to fading light in the early evening. The wicket appeared to be batsman-friendly early on, but India’s spinners exploited the turn and stop of the ball to halt South Africa’s progress. India’s stand-in captain Rishabh Pant made use of the spin attack to regain control in the crucial third session.
What Comes Next
With South Africa still in a solid position at stumps but having lost key wickets late, India will look to build on this momentum in the second session of the match. A stronger bowling performance tomorrow could swing the contest. South Africa, meanwhile, will aim to cross 300 and put India under pressure in the series decider.
