India regained control on the opening day of the IND vs SA 2nd Test as South Africa slipped from a strong position to 247/6 at stumps in Guwahati. After looking steady in the early sessions, the visitors lost momentum once India’s bowlers tightened their lines and struck regularly through the afternoon and evening. The standout performer was Kuldeep Yadav, whose clever changes in pace and turn delivered three important wickets that shifted the match in India’s favour.
South Africa had opted to bat first and began with confidence. Openers Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton handled the new ball well, leaving India searching for an early breakthrough. Jasprit Bumrah eventually provided that spark by knocking over Markram’s stumps, helping India break a growing partnership.
The visitors rebuilt through captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs, who rotated strike efficiently and punished the occasional loose delivery. Stubbs even lofted Ravindra Jadeja for a six, showcasing South Africa’s intent to push the scoring rate. Just as the innings appeared to be settling, India mounted a strong comeback.
Ravindra Jadeja struck first in this phase by removing Bavuma for 41, thanks to a sharp catch from Yashasvi Jaiswal. The momentum then fully swung towards India when Kuldeep Yadav entered his most effective spell of the day. He dismissed Stubbs for 49 and followed up with the wicket of Wiaan Mulder for 13, unsettling South Africa’s middle order with his variations and accuracy.
Mohammed Siraj added to the pressure by taking the wicket of Tony de Zorzi, caught behind by Rishabh Pant shortly before tea. The series of breakthroughs pushed South Africa onto the back foot, forcing their lower order into a defensive mode.
By the close of play, Senuran Muthusamy held firm with an unbeaten 25, while Kyle Verreynne supported him at the crease. Their partnership ensured the visitors avoided further collapse in the final overs, but India ended the day clearly on top.
Bowling Summary (India):
Kuldeep Yadav 3/48, Jasprit Bumrah 1/38, Mohammed Siraj 1/59, Ravindra Jadeja 1 wicket.
Heading into Day 2, India will look to wrap up South Africa’s innings quickly and then set up a strong batting foundation. South Africa, meanwhile, will aim for a lower-order partnership to push their total beyond 300, which could help them stay competitive in the match.