INDvsSA 2nd Test: South Africa Post 489, Put India on Back Foot in Guwahati
Muthusamy’s maiden ton and Jansen’s 93 bury India on Day 2.
South Africa delivered a ruthless batting masterclass on Day 2 of the second Test at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati, amassing a colossal 489 in their first innings and seizing complete control of the match. After winning the toss and electing to bat, the visitors dominated proceedings for almost the entire day, leaving India reeling and trailing by 480 runs at stumps with only their openers back in the hut for a tentative 9/0.
India-origin all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy stole the limelight with a magnificent maiden Test century, displaying remarkable composure and strokeplay during his 186-ball stay. Walking in during a middle-order wobble, Muthusamy anchored the innings with maturity beyond his limited Test experience, forging crucial partnerships that frustrated the Indian bowlers and steadily shifted momentum irreversibly towards South Africa.
The most devastating blow came from No. 9 Marco Jansen, who unleashed a breathtaking counter-attack, blasting 93 off just 91 deliveries. The towering left-hander smashed boundaries at will, targeting both pace and spin with equal disdain and converting a promising position into an imposing one. His whirlwind partnership with the lower order propelled South Africa past the 450-mark and exposed India’s inability to deliver the knockout punch.
Also Read: Rishabh Pant’s Tactical Blunder Leaves India Struggling in Guwahati Test
India’s bowling attack, led by wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav who claimed four wickets, appeared toothless for large periods, particularly during a wicketless morning session that allowed South Africa to build an impregnable foundation. Captain Rishabh Pant’s tactical decisions came under severe scrutiny as the hosts conceded control early and never recovered, marking one of the bleakest days for Indian Test cricket on home soil in recent memory.
At stumps, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul negotiated a tricky final hour under lights to remain unbeaten on 7 and 2 respectively. Facing a monumental deficit and a South African bowling unit brimming with confidence, India face an uphill battle to avoid an embarrassing defeat and keep the Freedom Trophy series alive. Day 3 promises to be a test of character for the hosts staring at potential follow-on humiliation.
Also Read: INDvsSA 2nd Test: South Africa Dominate Day 2 as Muthusamy, Jansen Punish India in Guwahati
