India Eyes Redemption to Avoid Home Series Defeat Against South Africa in Guwahati Showdown
India faced a substantial challenge in their second Test against South Africa in Guwahati. After a disappointing performance, they were bowled out for just 201 runs. This led to a significant first-innings deficit of 288 runs, putting India on the brink of a series defeat.
South Africa Dominates With Strong Bowling
Seamer Marco Jansen delivered an outstanding performance, taking six wickets for 48 runs. His efforts helped South Africa close the day at 26 runs without loss, leading by 314 runs and positioning them for a commanding 2-0 series victory.
India’s Struggles in First Innings
After resuming at 9-0 on day three, India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as the top scorer with 58 runs. He was dismissed by Jansen, who capitalized on the situation, taking four consecutive wickets. This sudden shift sent India from 102-3 to a precarious 122-7.
- Top Scorer: Yashasvi Jaiswal – 58 runs
- Marco Jansen’s Bowling Figures: 6 wickets for 48 runs
- Key Partnerships: Washington Sundar (48) and Kuldeep Yadav (19)
Washington Sundar supported the innings with a slow but steady 72-run partnership alongside Kuldeep Yadav. However, Sundar’s dismissal, caught off a delivery from spinner Simon Harmer, marked the end of India’s resistance. In the end, Jansen wrapped up the innings by claiming the last two wickets.
Historical Context of India’s Home Series
India has not experienced a home series defeat in over a decade until last year’s series loss against New Zealand, where they were beaten 3-0. Although they managed to secure a 2-0 victory against the West Indies in October, losing the current two-match series against South Africa would signify a second home defeat in just over a year.
As the match progresses, all eyes will be on India, who need to stage a remarkable comeback if they aim to avoid another home series defeat.
