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Match Preview: Day 4 – India’s Uphill Battle to Survive in Guwahati
Day four of the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati is set for a massive showdown as India resumes its first innings in desperate trouble, trailing South Africa by a daunting 295 runs.
The day’s play is scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM Local Time (IST) / 3:30 AM GMT.
The State of Play: A Monumental Deficit
South Africa took complete control on Day 3, dismantling the Indian batting lineup after posting a formidable first-innings total of 489 runs.
- Stumps Score: India finished Day 3 at 194 for 8.
- Bowling Damage: The collapse was ruthlessly executed by the Proteas, with both Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer claiming four wickets each. Harmer’s spin, in particular, proved too challenging for the Indian middle order.
- India’s Goal: India’s immediate priority on Day 4 must be to avoid the follow-on (which requires them to reach 289 runs). However, with only two wickets in hand, the realistic goal is to score as many runs as possible to keep the deficit under 300.
Key Battles and Player Focus
The match has shifted entirely in favor of South Africa, who will aim to wrap up the Indian innings quickly before building on their substantial lead.
- Spin Threat: The pitch at Barsapara is now expected to offer significant turn and variable bounce. South Africa’s spin duo, Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, will be lethal, putting immediate pressure on the remaining tail-enders.
- Jansen’s Role: Jansen will be crucial with the new ball (if taken) or first thing in the morning, utilizing his height and sharp seam movement to finish the innings.
- India’s Tail-End Fight: India needs a miracle from the final pair—likely Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah—to add any meaningful runs. Every run added will be vital to reduce the lead and keep the match from accelerating too quickly.
This day will be a test of survival for the hosts. South Africa is firmly positioned to secure a massive first-innings lead and push for a series-clinching victory.
Image Credits : CricBuzz
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