South Africa on the brink of a first Test series win in India after 25 years

South Africa demolished India early in their run chase on day four of the second Test in Guwahati. Chasing a mammoth target of 549, India finished the day on 27–2. To avoid a third consecutive home-series whitewash, Rohit Sharma’s side must bat through the entire final day.

Before their 3-0 defeat to New Zealand last October, India had gone 12 years without losing a Test series at home. Now that fear looms again.

South Africa went into this match with a 1-0 lead after winning the first Test in Kolkata by 30 runs.

Starting day four on 26 without loss, the visitors slipped to 77–3, but Tristan Stubbs steadied the innings. He built a century stand with Tony de Zorzi and added another 82 with Wiaan Mulder to take South Africa to a commanding position. Stubbs fell for 94, bowled while eyeing his third Test century. Soon after, South Africa declared, leading by 514.

In reply, India’s start was disastrous. Yashasvi Jaiswal edged a Marco Jansen bouncer to the keeper, and KL Rahul was bowled by Simon Harmer’s sharp turn.

Kuldeep Yadav, sent in as nightwatchman, remained unbeaten on 4 at stumps, with Sai Sudharsan on 6.