• Tristan Stubbs' crucial innings of 94 steered South Africa to declare at 260/5 on Day 4 of the Guwahati Test.

  • India ended Day 4 in a tough spot, struggling early in their second innings while chasing a daunting 549 on a spin-friendly pitch.

Fans erupt as Tristan Stubbs leads South Africa’s dominance over India on Day 4 of the Guwahati Test
Fans erupt as Tristan Stubbs leads South Africa’s charge past India on Day 4 of the Guwahati Test (Image source: X)

The 2nd Test between India and South Africa at Guwahati’s Barsapara Cricket Stadium, started on November 22, has unfolded into a gripping contest. South Africa set the tone early by posting a formidable first innings total of 489, with crucial middle-order contributions. India, in response, struggled and were bowled out for 201. As the match progressed into Day 4, South Africa’s Tristan Stubbs emerged as the key player, propelling his team into an imposing position with a brilliant 94 in the second innings. Currently, South Africa declared at 260 for 5, setting India a daunting target of 549 runs to chase on a deteriorating pitch, intensifying the challenge for the hosts.

Tristan Stubbs powers South Africa to set up a mammoth target against India

Stubbs played a match-defining innings of 94 runs off 180 balls in South Africa’s second innings, anchoring the Proteas’ charge after early wickets. Partnering with Tony de Zorzi, who contributed 49, Stubbs expertly negotiated India’s spin threat led by Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, frustrating bowlers with calculated aggression and patience. The pair added a critical 101 runs for the fourth wicket, stabilizing the innings after early breakthroughs.

Stubbs later shared another crucial partnership with Wiaan Mulder, pushing South Africa to a commanding declaration at 260/5. This declaration set India a near-impossible target of 549 runs in the fourth innings on a pitch showing signs of wear and spin, heavily favouring the visitors. With spin bowlers posing a major threat and the pitch conditions deteriorating, Stubbs’ innings was pivotal in shifting momentum overwhelmingly in South Africa’s favour.

India’s tricky situation at Day 4 close in Guwahati Test

India began their daunting chase but quickly slipped into trouble by losing early wickets. At stumps on Day 4, India were precariously placed at 27/2 in 15.5 overs, needing 522 more runs to avoid defeat. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul fell cheaply whereas Sai Sudharsan and Kuldeep Yadav remained at the crease but with a required run rate of just 1.70, the pressure is immense given the task’s enormity. South African bowlers, particularly Jadeja with 4 wickets in the second innings and Washington, maintained tight control, exploiting the pitch’s grip and India’s frailties. The Indian batting lineup now faces a massive challenge to survive the remaining sessions as South Africa loom dominant with a 521-run lead and the possibility of a series sweep looming large.

This match at Guwahati has evolved into a thrilling Test showdown with Stubbs orchestrating South Africa’s commanding position. India’s batters are under severe pressure to mount a historic chase against relentless bowling and challenging pitch conditions. The coming day will determine if India can conjure a miracle or if South Africa will seal a remarkable series victory.​

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About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on , , and .