South Africa Puts on Solid Performance Against India in Guwahati Test

Post by : Mara Rahim

On Saturday, South Africa commenced the second and final Test against India in Guwahati with a commanding performance. Despite Ryan Rickleton's early dismissal, captain Temba Bavuma's assured play propelled his team to 156 for two at lunch. The visitors maintained composure throughout the morning session, consistently putting pressure on the Indian bowlers.

Rickleton and Aiden Markram initially gave South Africa a robust start, amassing 82 runs for the first wicket. Markram was cautious yet also capitalized on casual deliveries, scoring 38 before his off. Rickleton totaled 35 but fell victim to spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who managed the breakthrough. Nevertheless, the Indian bowling side struggled to maintain pressure, allowing South Africa to register runs at a steady pace.

Bavuma, who had notable success in the first Test in Kolkata, once again exhibited confidence. At the lunch break, he was on 36, demonstrating both patience and control. His counterpart Tristan Stubbs was equally assured, remaining not out on 32. Their partnership advanced South Africa's score without any undue risk.

This ongoing match at Barsapara Cricket Stadium marks a historic occasion as it is the venue's inaugural Test. The traditional break timings were adjusted due to the early sunrise and swiftly diminishing light in the northeastern region. Instead of a lunch break, a tea break was observed first, creating a unique experience for both players and spectators.

Prior to the match, Bavuma elected to bat first after winning the toss. The pitch appeared well-grassed, exhibiting neither cracks nor uneven bounce. Given the turning pitch in Kolkata, where India triumphed in the first Test within three days, South Africa welcomed these more favorable batting conditions. Bavuma's decision to bat first proved astute, as the openers navigated the pitch effectively.

India had an opportunity to dismiss Markram early when Jasprit Bumrah induced an edge, but KL Rahul failed to secure the catch at slip. This missed opportunity allowed South Africa to establish a solid footing. Stand-in captain Rishabh Pant resorted to spin in the 14th over in search of a breakthrough. Washington Sundar delivered commendably but did not particularly trouble the batters.

Kuldeep Yadav joined from the other end, attempting to break the opening pair. However, the South African duo continued their patient play until Bumrah returned for a final over ahead of the tea break, yielding results when Markram fell victim to an inside edge reaching the stumps.

Post-tea, Kuldeep struck again, catching Rickleton behind. Despite the setbacks, South Africa maintained their strength. Bavuma's solid defense and Stubbs' nimble footwork against the spinners enabled them to amass 74 runs for the third wicket without losing further wickets. Their partnership has placed South Africa in a promising position early on.

As the match progresses, India will aim to have their bowlers return with renewed vigor, while South Africa will focus on consolidating a substantial first-innings score. The pitch remains conducive for batting, setting the stage for an enthralling contest ahead.