India’s Batting Struggles Exposed in Second Test
India’s batting lineup faced significant challenges in the second Test against South Africa, as the latter dominated the match at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal showed promise with a fluent 58 before India’s performance crumbled. This led to a score of 102 for four at tea in response to South Africa’s formidable first innings total of 489
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South Africa’s bowlers asserted their dominance by taking four wickets within a single session. This left India trailing by 387 runs, putting South Africa in a commanding position to potentially achieve a 2-0 series victory. Rishabh Pant, currently leading India in place of the injured captain Shubman Gill, was at the crease, scoring six runs. Ravindra Jadeja was yet to start his innings.
Opening Partnership and Wicket Fall
After their defeat in Kolkata’s three-day match, India approached the game with caution. Kuldeep Yadav described the pitch as a “road,” indicating minimal support for the bowlers. KL Rahul contributed 22 runs, while Jaiswal was more aggressive, often using the sweep shot against the spinners.
The breakthrough for South Africa came when Keshav Maharaj dismissed Rahul. Jaiswal reached fifty, but his innings ended quickly as he was caught out. Further wickets followed, with Sai Sudharsan and Dhruv Jurel also falling, leaving India struggling. Pant has to put up a better performance to take India back into the competition.
Conclusion
South Africa’s strong bowling performance put India under pressure in the second Test. Leading to a precarious position. Unless India’s remaining batsmen can mount a significant comeback.