South Africa Power Ahead on Day 4 to Edge Closer to Series Sweep of India
Day 4: South Africa Take Firm Grip
On the fourth day of the second and final Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, South Africa moved significantly closer to completing a 2-0 series sweep of India. The Proteas built a commanding position and left India facing a gargantuan chase as the light faded.
South Africa, after declaring their second innings at 260 for 5, set India a target of 549 runs to win. India reached 27 for 2 at stumps, needing another 522 with eight wickets remaining.
South Africa’s Batting Patience Pays Off
Resuming the day with a lead already substantial in hand, South Africa adopted a methodical approach. A standout performance came from Tristan Stubbs, who scored 94 from 180 balls, anchoring the side’s push past the 400-run lead. His partnership with Tony de Zorzi and then with Wiaan Mulder ensured South Africa controlled the session after lunch.
When South Africa finally declared, late in the final session, they forced India into a near-impossible chase and handed themselves a psychological edge. India’s bowlers toiled without reward through South Africa’s second innings.
India’s Top Order Slips and Harmer Strikes Late
India’s second innings began poorly. The openers offered little resistance as South Africa applied pressure.
Yashasvi Jaiswal departed early for 13 when he was caught behind off short-balling from Marco Jansen. Soon after, KL Rahul was bowled by Simon Harmer in his first over.
By stumps India were 27 for 2 from 15.5 overs. South Africa thus are eight wickets away from sealing victory and the series.
Key Performers & Tactical Themes
Jansen’s Short-Ball Barrage
Jansen’s impact has been pivotal – not just with the bat in the first innings, but with his pace, bounce and short-ball strategy. The Indian batters were unsettled by the barrage of short deliveries. One detailed breakdown noted that the South African fast bowlers had a strike-rate of 33.2 and returned seven wickets, whereas the Indian quicks struggled with a strike-rate of 124.5.
Harmer’s Control
Harmer continues to shine with his off-spin in Indian conditions. His wicket of Rahul late in the day reminded India that the slower bowlers can dominate too when the pitch wears.
South Africa’s Decision to Decline Earlier?
Some analysts have questioned South Africa’s decision to delay the declaration. Although they set a massive target, critics argue that a slightly earlier declaration may have given them more overs to attack the Indian top order on a wearing pitch.
Outlook for Day 5
Unless there is a dramatic turnaround, India faces an uphill battle. They must muster more than 550 runs and then take ten wickets. The Proteas, by contrast, need only eight wickets to seal victory and the series sweep. Expect the spinners to feature prominently, especially as the pitch deteriorates. South Africa have multiple options in that phase, and India’s batting fragility under pressure remains exposed.
Scorecard – At Stumps Day 4
South Africa 1st innings: 489 (all out)
India 1st innings: 201 (all out)
South Africa 2nd innings: 260/5 (dec), lead 549 runs
India 2nd innings: 27/2 (15.5 ov), Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul are already out.
India still need: 522 runs to win or play full day to survive
