Guwahati, November 23, 2025 - India and South Africa resume play on Day 2 of the second and final Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, with India looking to capitalize on the momentum gained late on Day 1. South Africa ended the first day at 247/6 after 81.5 overs, with India fighting back in the final session with crucial wickets. Play ended early on the first day due to bad light.

Kuldeep Yadav was the standout performer for India on Day 1, claiming three crucial wickets for 48 runs in his 17 overs. He dismissed Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Wiaan Mulder, disrupting South Africa's momentum each time they looked set to build a substantial partnership. His ability to generate overspin and drift the ball proved effective on a pitch that offered little natural assistance to spinners. India's assistant coach, Ryan Ten Doeschate, has emphasized Kuldeep's significance, especially on unresponsive pitches, calling him the team's "X-factor". Former South African pacer Shaun Pollock also praised Kuldeep's impressive Test numbers, highlighting his average of 21.18 and a strike rate of less than 40.

Jasprit Bumrah provided the initial breakthrough for India, dismissing Aiden Markram for 38 just before tea. Bumrah bowled a tight line and length, conceding only 38 runs in his 17 overs and bagging six maidens. Mohammed Siraj struck late in the day, removing Tony de Zorzi for 28 with the new ball.

South Africa's innings was built on gritty partnerships, with Tristan Stubbs top-scoring with 49 off 112 balls. Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35) also contributed valuable runs. However, none of them could convert their starts into big scores, thanks to India's disciplined bowling effort. Stubbs admitted to being deceived by a sharp, drifting delivery from his Delhi Capitals teammate, Kuldeep Yadav.

India will aim to wrap up South Africa's innings quickly on Day 2, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj expected to lead the charge with the new ball. The key will be to dismiss Senuran Muthusamy (25) and Kyle Verreynne (1), who are currently at the crease. India will be hoping to bowl out South Africa under 300.

The first session of Day 2 will begin at 9:00 AM IST, earlier than scheduled due to the early sunset in Guwahati. Cricket fans can watch the match on the Star Sports Network and live stream it on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.