SRINAGAR: South Africa on Wednesday secured a 408-run victory over India in the second Test at Guwahati, completing a 2-0 series sweep and handing India their heaviest home defeat in terms of runs.
Chasing a target of 549, India were bowled out for 140 on the final day, with Ravindra Jadeja top-scoring with 54. Off-spinner Simon Harmer was the star for South Africa, claiming 6-37, while all-rounder Marco Jansen produced a stunning one-handed catch to seal the victory.
The result marked the first time India has lost a Test at home by over 400 runs and only the third instance of consecutive home series defeats. Over seven Tests at home, India has now lost five, a record not seen in more than six decades.
In a disappointing batting display, Rishabh Pant managed just 13, while young players Sai Sudharsan, Washington Sundar, Dhruv Jurel, and Nitish Reddy struggled against Harmer’s spin. Sudharsan, in particular, survived 139 balls for just 14 runs, frequently on the verge of dismissal.
Critics have pointed to Gautam Gambhir’s selection and tactical decisions as key factors in the collapse. His reliance on inexperienced players and “bits-and-pieces” cricketers in Tests has left the team uncertain about roles and strategy, affecting confidence and performance.
Despite Jadeja’s lone resistance, the rest of the batting order failed to cope with the bounce, drift, and turn on the Barsapara pitch. Analysts warn that this defeat could have long-term implications for India’s red-ball setup, highlighting deficiencies in preparation, technique, and planning.
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, now boast a historic win that will be remembered for the dominance of their bowling attack and the collapse of India’s once formidable home advantage.
