Guwahati, November 26: South Africa produced a commanding performance to defeat India by 408 runs in the second Test at the Barsapara Stadium, securing a 2–0 clean sweep in the series and handing India their biggest-ever Test defeat by runs.
The Proteas, who won the first Test in Kolkata by 30 runs, completed a rare and historic series victory on Indian soil their first Test series win in India in 25 years, last achieved in 2000 under Hansie Cronje.
Day Five: India Collapse Chasing 549
India, set an improbable target of 549 runs, were bowled out for 140 shortly after lunch on the final day.
- Ravindra Jadeja offered the only notable resistance, scoring 54 off 87 balls, but the rest of the batting order folded against disciplined South African bowling.
- India’s top and middle order struggled throughout the innings, unable to build partnerships on a deteriorating surface.
Harmer Destroys India’s Middle Order
South African off-spinner Simon Harmer delivered a match-winning spell, taking 6 wickets for 37 in the second innings. His accuracy and sharp turn ripped through India’s middle order, earning him widespread praise and putting South Africa in complete control.
Other Key Performances (Fact-Verified)
- Marco Jansen made a crucial impact earlier in the match with important wickets across the Test, maintaining relentless pressure on Indian batsmen.
- South Africa’s batting unit built a strong first-innings platform, with multiple players contributing solid scores to push the total beyond India’s reach.
Impact on World Test Championship
The emphatic win strengthens South Africa’s position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, while the defeat marks a major setback for India, whose home record is considered one of the strongest in world cricket.
This series loss especially by a margin of 408 runs will prompt deep introspection within the Indian camp, both in terms of selection and approach.
Summary
South Africa’s clinical performance across both Tests backed by disciplined bowling, sharper fielding and crucial partnerships earned them a landmark series win in conditions where visiting teams rarely succeed.
Also Read | Jansen’s 6-for Crushes India as South Africa Take 314-Run Control in Guwahati Test
