India struggles at 27-2 as South Africa’s 549-run target looms large on Day 4 of 2nd Test

On Day 4 of the second Test match between India and South Africa, India found themselves in a precarious position. Attempting to chase a massive target of 549 runs, India ended the day at 27-2. This daunting challenge follows a strong performance by the South African team, who declared their second innings at 260-5.

South Africa’s Strong Performance

Tristan Stubbs was a standout player for South Africa, scoring 94 runs off 180 balls. His innings included nine boundaries and contributed significantly to South Africa’s overall lead. The Proteas, having earlier scored 489 in their first innings, leveraged an impressive lead after bowling India out for just 201.

Key Events from Day 4

• South Africa declared at 260-5 in their second innings.
• India lost openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Lokesh Rahul early in their innings.
• At the close of play, Sai Sudharsan was not out at 2, with Kuldeep Yadav at 4.

South Africa’s Path to Victory

South Africa’s batting on Day 4 started with Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton, who added 59 runs for the first wicket. Markram scored 29 runs, while Rickelton made 35. After the pair fell, Marco Jansen also made an impact with the ball, taking 6-48 in India’s first innings.

India’s Bowling Challenges

• Ravindra Jadeja was the pick of the Indian bowlers, recording 4-62 in 28.3 overs.
• Washington Sundar added another wicket, finishing with 1-67.
• Fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj contributed only a total of 11 overs.

Historical Context

This match marks only the second occurrence of a visiting team setting a target of over 500 runs for India. The last instance was in 2004 when Australia set a target of 543 runs. Additionally, since 2000, India has only successfully batted over 100 overs in the fourth innings to save a Test match once.

Next Steps for India

Now, India must navigate Day 5 without losing further wickets if they aim to secure a draw. With their top order struggling, the emphasis will be on the remaining batsmen to withstand the South African bowling attack. Stubbs expressed confidence about the conditions, noting that if South Africa bowls well, they can seize a victory.