Guwahati, November 22: On the opening day of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, the visitors reached a commanding 247 for six by stumps, setting a strong foundation thanks to solid starts from their top order.
South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and opted to bat on a surface that featured grass cover and offered early promise. Openers Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35) combined for an 82-run opening stand. They gave South Africa exactly the kind of positive start they were seeking.
India turned to spin early in the innings. The wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav picked up three wickets for 48 runs and pulled India back into the contest after South Africa looked set to post a mammoth total.
As play progressed, South Africa looked to accelerate, but India’s bowling unit halted momentum in the final sessions. Bavuma (41) and Tristan Stubbs (49) added 84 for the third wicket before falling in quick succession.
With scores like this, South Africa are firmly in control, but the fightback by India ensures the hosts are firmly still in the game. The tone is set for an intriguing second day where early breakthroughs by India could swing momentum back in their direction.
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