South Africa Close in on Series Win as Jadeja Takes Two Wickets in Second Test

Guwahati: South Africa extended their lead to a commanding 395 runs as they moved closer to a series victory in the second Test against India on Tuesday. Ravindra Jadeja took two important wickets for India, but the Proteas remained firmly in control.

South Africa, the current World Test champions, lead the two-match series 1-0. Even a draw in Guwahati would secure their first Test series win in India since 2000. India suffered their fourth defeat in six home Tests during the series opener in Kolkata, and the hosts will need a strong batting performance to avoid another loss.

At the first session break, South Africa were 107-3, having lost three wickets in the morning. Tristan Stubbs was on 14 and Tony de Zorzi on 21. Play started 30 minutes early due to early sunsets, with the intervals reordered so that the shorter tea came before lunch.

South Africa resumed at 26-0 after bowling India out for 201 on day three, leading by 288 runs in the first innings. They opted not to enforce the follow-on.

Read more: Pakistan Beat South Africa by 3 Runs as Over-40s T20 World Cup Kicks Off

Left-handed opener Ryan Rickelton scored 35 before falling to Jadeja’s left-arm spin while attempting a shot over cover. Jadeja also dismissed Aiden Markram for 29, while fellow spinner Washington Sundar removed South African captain Temba Bavuma for three. Jadeja finished the session with figures of 2-20.

With South Africa in a strong position, India faces an uphill battle to save the Test and prevent a series loss.