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Day four of the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati saw South Africa consolidate their complete dominance, setting India a near-impossible target after a determined middle-order batting display.
South Africa’s Final Dominance
South Africa began the day with a massive lead and spent the first three sessions deliberately accumulating runs to extend the lead beyond reach.
- Stubbs’ Resilience: Young batsman Tristan Stubbs was the centerpiece of the innings, defying the Indian spinners with grit and flair. He scored a magnificent 94 runs off 180 balls, just falling short of a maiden Test century after being dismissed trying to hit Ravindra Jadeja over the boundary.
- Crucial Partnerships: Stubbs received excellent support from Tony de Zorzi (49 off 68 balls), with the pair adding a vital 101-run stand. Stubbs later partnered with Wiaan Mulder (35 runs) to further frustrate the Indian bowlers.
- Final Declaration: Captain Temba Bavuma finally declared the innings closed at 260 for 5, setting India an astronomical target of 549 runs—the highest target ever set by a visiting team on Indian soil.
India’s Disastrous Start to the Chase
India’s pursuit began with immediate disaster, losing both openers cheaply before the close of play.
- Jaiswal Falls Again: Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (13) was dismissed by pacer Marco Jansen (who was brilliant with the ball throughout the Test), continuing Jaiswal’s struggles against the left-arm angle.
- Harmer Strikes: The pressure intensified moments later when spinner Simon Harmer produced a classic off-break to clean up KL Rahul (6), who was beaten by the turn.
- Stumps Position: India finished the day reeling at 27 for 2. Sai Sudharsan (2)* and night-watchman Kuldeep Yadav (4)* were left to navigate a desperate final few overs, with India requiring another 522 runs for victory.
South Africa is firmly in the driver’s seat, requiring only eight more wickets on Day 5 to secure a series sweep. India must now attempt a defensive miracle to bat out the entire final day.
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Image credit : My Cricket Highlights 2
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