Post by : Maya Rahman

South Africa launched a promising campaign on the first day of the second and final Test against India in Guwahati on Saturday. After the loss of Ryan Rickleton, captain Temba Bavuma showed resilience, guiding his team to a noteworthy 156 for two at lunch. Throughout the morning, the visiting side appeared composed, applying pressure on the Indian bowlers.

Rickleton and Aiden Markram provided a robust beginning, contributing 82 runs for the opening wicket. Markram showed caution while capitalizing on loose deliveries, scoring 38 before being dismissed. Rickleton added 35 runs, falling victim to spinner Kuldeep Yadav’s breakthrough. Despite this setback, India struggled to gain momentum as South Africa maintained a steady scoring rate.

Bavuma, who secured the only half-century in the first Test in Kolkata, looked unfazed once again. By lunch, he was batting on 36, demonstrating patience and skill. Partner Tristan Stubbs also appeared poised, remaining unbeaten on 32, as their partnership allowed South Africa to advance without taking undue risks.

This match at Barsapara Cricket Stadium holds significance as it marks the venue's inaugural Test. Unconventional scheduling was implemented due to the rapid twilight in the northeastern region, leading to the tea break taking precedence over lunch, creating a distinct experience for players and spectators alike.

Prior to the match, Bavuma opted to bat first after winning the toss. The pitch exhibited a healthy amount of grass without visible cracks or uneven bounce. Following a turning surface in Kolkata, where India clinched victory in just three days, South Africa relished these favorable batting conditions. Bavuma's decision to bat first paid dividends as the openers adeptly navigated the pitch.

India had an opportunity to dismiss Markram early when Jasprit Bumrah induced an edge, but KL Rahul couldn't hold onto the catch at slip. This missed chance allowed South Africa to settle and construct a formidable platform. Stand-in captain Rishabh Pant introduced spin in the 14th over, seeking a breakthrough. Washington Sundar bowled steadily but failed to pose much challenge to the batters.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav soon joined the attack, aiming to disrupt the opening partnership. Yet, the South African duo showcased steady resolve until Bumrah returned for a final over before the tea break, where Markram was ultimately bowled after an inside edge on his stumps.

Post-tea, Kuldeep struck again, sending Rickleton back caught behind. Nevertheless, South Africa stood firm, with Bavuma's solid defense and Stubbs’ agile footwork against the spinners allowing them to accumulate 74 runs for the third wicket without further loss. Their partnership has positioned South Africa favorably at the outset of the match.

As India looks to regroup in the next session, South Africa aims to fortify their first-innings tally. With the conditions still leaning in favor of batting, the match promises an exhilarating face-off between the teams.

#Sports News