Day 1 of the India vs South Africa 2nd Test in Guwahati saw drama early as KL Rahul dropped Aiden Markram at slip, denying Jasprit Bumrah a breakthrough. South Africa, batting first after winning the toss, looked solid with Markram and Ryan Rickelton building a steady opening stand.
The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati hosted its first-ever Test as India sought redemption after losing the opener in Kolkata. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma opted to bat first, aiming to secure a historic series win. India, led by Rishabh Pant in Shubman Gill’s absence, made two changes: Sai Sudharsan and Nitish Kumar Reddy came into the XI.
Early in the innings, Jasprit Bumrah induced an edge from Aiden Markram, only for KL Rahul to spill the catch at slip, leaving India frustrated. The Proteas capitalized, with Markram and Rickelton steadying the innings against India’s pace attack.
The red-soil pitch offered some assistance to seamers initially, but is expected to favor spinners from Day 3 onwards. India’s bowlers will need discipline to break South Africa’s opening stand and regain control.
Key Highlights
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Venue: Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati (India’s 30th Test venue)
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Toss: South Africa chose to bat first
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India’s XI: Pant as captain; Sudharsan & Reddy in for Gill & Axar
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Turning Point: KL Rahul dropped Aiden Markram off Bumrah
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South Africa’s Aim: Historic series win after Kolkata triumph
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India’s Goal: Level series, secure vital WTC points
The dropped catch could prove costly as South Africa looks to build momentum in this crucial Test.
Sources: Times of India, Livemint, Firstpost, News18, Hindustan