South Africa take commanding lead after India collapse in Guwahati Test

South Africa ended Day 3 of the second Test against India in Guwahati with a commanding lead of 314 runs, leaving India firmly on the back foot. Marco Jansen starred with the ball, taking six wickets for just 48 runs, as India’s batting order collapsed for a total of 201.

India had started the day positively, building on a solid opening stand of 65 runs between Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) and KL Rahul (22). However, the momentum quickly shifted as wickets fell in clusters. Skipper Rishabh Pant’s rash shot saw him depart cheaply, and the middle order failed to hold the innings together. Despite a valiant eighth-wicket partnership of 72 runs between Washington Sundar (48 off 92 balls) and Kuldeep Yadav (19 off 134 balls), India could not avoid a sub-200 total.

Jansen’s height, bounce, and accuracy troubled both the top and middle order, while spinner Simon Harmer added to India’s woes, picking up three crucial wickets. By the end of India’s innings, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj could add only a few runs before succumbing to Jansen’s relentless attack.

South Africa resumed batting and ended the day at 24/0 in eight overs, with openers Aiden Markram (12) and Ryan Rickelton (13) unbeaten. The visitors now lead by 314 runs and remain firmly in control of the match.

Former India captain Anil Kumble criticised India’s approach, pointing out Pant’s aggressive shots and the lack of patience in the middle order. South African great Dale Steyn echoed the concerns, noting that India’s batsmen lacked application and failed to read Jansen’s bowling.

Despite the collapse, Washington and Kuldeep were the positives for India, showing resilience and composure under pressure. Moving into Day 4, India will need strong contributions from both the top and lower order to mount any fightback.

Score at stumps, Day 3:

India - 201 all out

South Africa - 24/0, lead by 314