Jansen Triumphs Over India on Their Home Turf
Marco Jansen delivered a stunning performance as South Africa dominated India during the third day of their second Test match at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The left-arm seamer achieved a remarkable six-wicket haul, claiming figures of 6 for 48 in 19.5 overs. This led to India being bowled out for 201 in response to South Africa’s formidable first innings total of 489.
South Africa Takes Control
As day three concluded, South Africa stood strong with a score of 26 for 0, enjoying a commanding lead of 314 runs. Ryan Rickelton was unbeaten on 13, while Aiden Markram had scored 12 before bad light halted play.
India’s Struggles with the Bat
India initially showed promise with a 65-run opening partnership. However, the momentum shifted dramatically after KL Rahul fell to Keshav Maharaj at slip. Yashasvi Jaiswal contributed a solid 58, but his dismissal initiated a rapid collapse where India lost three wickets for just seven runs just before the lunch break.
Turning Point After Tea
The match took a decisive turn after tea when Jansen unleashed his full potential. He captured three crucial wickets, leaving India struggling at 122 for 7. Rishabh Pant, the Indian captain, was dismissed after attempting an aggressive counter-attack. Jansen’s intimidating short deliveries also led to the dismissals of Nitish Kumar Reddy and Ravindra Jadeja, the latter caught spectacularly by Markram.
Partnerships That Delayed the Inevitable
Despite challenges, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav managed to stitch a resilient partnership of 72 runs. Sundar scored 48 before Simon Harmer ended their resistance. Jansen then struck again, securing his fourth Test five-wicket haul by dismissing Yadav, courtesy of another catch by Markram. He concluded the Indian innings by dismissing Jasprit Bumrah.
Series Outlook
With captain Temba Bavuma opting to bat again instead of enforcing the follow-on, South Africa concluded a perfect day of cricket. India now faces a significant challenge as they look to avoid a 2-0 series loss at home.
- Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati
- South Africa First Innings: 489
- India Second Innings: 201
- Jansen’s Bowling Figures: 6 wickets for 48 runs
- India’s Score at Close: 26 for 0 (314-run lead for South Africa)
As day four approaches, the pressure mounts on India to avert a series defeat on their home turf.