IND vs SA 2nd Test Day 4: Match report, what to watch for on Day 5 as India slump to 27/2 in 549 chase
At the close of Day 4 in Guwahati, India, they find themselves in deep trouble in the chase of a massive target against South Africa.
South Africa declared their second innings at 260 for 5, after posting 489 in the first innings. That declaration set India a daunting target of 549 runs to win the match and level the two-Test series.
When stumps were drawn, India were 27 for 2 in their second innings, still needing 522 more runs with eight wickets in hand.
The openers fell cheaply: Yashasvi Jaiswal departed for 13, caught off pacer Marco Jansen, and KL Rahul went for 6, dismissed by spinner Simon Harmer in the 10th over.
At stumps, Kuldeep Yadav (4 not out) and Sai Sudharsan (2 not out) were still at the crease.
South Africa’s second-innings batting showed strong resilience, particularly from Tristan Stubbs, who scored 94, and Tony de Zorzi with 49, helping the visitors consolidate their advantage.
On the Indian bowling side, Ravindra Jadeja took 4 for 62 to slightly blunt the attack.
With South Africa leading the series 1-0, India now faces an enormous challenge on Day 5 if they are to avoid a series defeat.
The spin-friendly surface appears to have offered more to the bowlers than expected, and India’s batting frailties in this chase are under stark focus.
What to watch on Day 5
- India will need a near-miracle to pull off the chase: historically, very few teams have successfully chased 500+ runs in India.
- South Africa might play conservatively, knowing time is on their side and wicketsare likely to fall if India bat long.
- India's batting order must hold together: early wickets have already put them on the back foot. The spin bowlers (for both sides) may play a crucial role as the pitch wears further.