Source The Indian Express
Guwahati, November 25, 2025 – India’s hopes of leveling the two-match series took a massive hit on Day 4 of the second Test in Guwahati, as a ruthless South Africa set an improbable target of 549 runs and then compounded the host’s misery by striking twice before stumps.
The day ended with India reeling at 27 for 2, needing a colossal 522 more runs on the final day to secure what would be a miraculous victory, or more realistically, to bat out for a draw. South Africa now stand just eight wickets away from sealing a historic series whitewash on Indian soil.
Proteas Pile on the Runs
South Africa began the day at an overnight score and continued to strengthen their commanding position, eventually declaring their second innings at 260 for 5.
The backbone of their second innings was a composed knock from young batsman Tristan Stubbs, who fell agonizingly short of a maiden Test century, dismissed by Ravindra Jadeja for a superb 94 off 180 balls. Stubbs shared a crucial 101-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Tony de Zorzi (49), and later added 82 with Wiaan Mulder (35 not out), pushing the lead well beyond the 500-run mark.
Ravindra Jadeja was the most successful Indian bowler, claiming 4/62 in the second innings, but the visiting batters maintained control for the majority of the day.
Early Blows Rock Indian Chase
With an imposing target of 549—a score well in excess of the highest-ever successful chase in Test history (418)—India’s openers were tasked with surviving a difficult final session. However, the task proved too great.
Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal (13) was the first to depart, edging a delivery from the towering pacer Marco Jansen in the seventh over, continuing his struggles against the South African spearhead.
The second wicket fell quickly when KL Rahul (6) was clean bowled by off-spinner Simon Harmer, who found sharp turn from the deteriorating pitch.
Nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav (4*) joined Sai Sudharsan (2*) at the crease, and the duo managed to negotiate the remaining overs until the close of play.
India’s only realistic ambition on Day 5 will be a heroic effort to bat for three sessions, a challenge that looks increasingly daunting given the turn and occasional bounce already on offer for the South African bowlers.
Score Summary at Stumps, Day 4:
Team Innings 1 Innings 2
South Africa 489 260/5 declared
India 201 27
Target for India: 549 runs. India needs 522 runs to win with 8 wickets in hand.
