KEY POINTS
- Markram–Rickelton and Bavuma–Stubbs partnerships laid the foundation despite quick Indian breakthroughs.
- Kuldeep Yadav led India’s attack with three vital wickets to keep the Proteas in check.
- Muthusamy and Verreynne held firm late in the day to ensure no further damage at stumps.
GUWAHATI, India: South Africa stitched together a determined 247/6 on the opening day of the second Test against India, showcasing patience, grit, and a touch of flair at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium Guwahati, on Saturday.
Electing to bat first, the Proteas began with calm authority. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton carved out an 82-run opening stand, steady, measured, and reassuring, before India jolted the visitors with two wickets in quick succession. The brief stumble, however, didn’t sway South Africa’s resolve.
Captain Temba Bavuma and the composed Tristan Stubbs took charge, rebuilding the innings with an 84-run partnership that anchored the middle order.
Stubbs, unhurried and unfazed, top-scored with a watchful 49, while Bavuma crafted a neat 41, guiding the ship through tricky spells until India struck back again.
Kuldeep Yadav emerged as India’s key disruptor, slicing through the lineup with three crucial wickets, including Stubbs, Rickelton, and Wiaan Mulder.
His clever variations kept South Africa from running away with the momentum. Tony de Zorzi’s composed 28 added brief stability before Mohammed Siraj’s sharp delivery drew an edge to the keeper.
Just when India seemed ready to tighten their grip, Senuran Muthusamy and Kyle Verreynne stood firm, stitching a calm, pressure-defying stand that ensured there were no late collapses.
Their resilience carried South Africa safely to stumps, setting the stage for a promising day two.
With a blend of partnerships, patience, and timely resistance, South Africa walk away from day one with the confidence of a side that has weathered the storm, at least for now.
