Can South Africa Extend Their Lead Beyond 500 Runs at Lunchtime?
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Synopsis
As Day 4 unfolds in Guwahati, South Africa's batsmen maintain their focus, extending their lead to an impressive 508 runs against India. This commanding performance raises the stakes as the match progresses, leaving fans eager to see how the game unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- South Africa's lead: Extended to 508 runs against India.
- Consistent batting: Key partnerships have strengthened South Africa's innings.
- India's bowling challenges: Struggled against South Africa's aggressive approach.
- Jadeja's performance: Took significant wickets for India.
- Future sessions: Crucial for determining the match outcome.
Guwahati, Nov 25 (NationPress) The South African batters showcased exceptional poise on Day 4 of the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, significantly boosting their lead to 508 runs against India, thereby solidifying their commanding position in the match.
Openers Ryan Rickleton and Aiden Markram began the day confidently, advancing their overnight score from 26/0 to 58/1 before Rickleton fell. The Proteas made steady progress in the morning, primarily due to Rickleton, who managed to score 35 with some luck before being dismissed by Jadeja while attempting a big shot.
The pitch remained reliable throughout the first session, showing no signs of deterioration. Washington Sundar bowled an impressive early spell, skillfully varying his pace to maintain a low run rate.
While the openers appeared secure against the seam bowlers, their cautious approach towards the spinners led to a few unexpected soft dismissals, which was surprising given their dominant position. Jadeja claimed both openers in the first session, while Temba Bavuma was dismissed cheaply at leg slip by Sundar.
However, Zorzi and Stubbs found the gaps for regular boundaries before tea. In the second session, South Africa's lead surged past 400 runs, rejuvenated by a flourishing partnership.
De Zorzi played aggressively, effectively using the sweep shot to score multiple leg-side boundaries, thereby keeping the spinners guessing. He provided the visitors with much-needed momentum, while Stubbs took his time to settle in.
Zorzi looked sharp, but Jadeja struck again, claiming his third wicket of the day by trapping the South African middle-order batter lbw for 49.
In the 69th over, Yashasvi Jaiswal took the ball, but the strategy backfired as Wiaan Mulder found the boundary on the fourth ball.
With four sessions remaining in the match, South Africa continues to dominate with a lead of 508 runs, maintaining control throughout both sessions.
During the second session, the Proteas added 113 runs in 30 overs while losing just Zorzi's wicket.
Brief Scores: South Africa 489 and 220/4 in 70 overs (Tristan Stubbs 60 not out, Tony de Zorzi 49) lead India 201 all out in 83.5 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 58, Washington Sundar 48; Marco Jansen 6-48, Simon Harmer 3-64) by 508 runs.
Point of View
The performance of South Africa in this Test match exemplifies not only skill but also strategic acumen. Their ability to maintain composure under pressure highlights the depth of their batting lineup and raises questions about India's bowling tactics. As the match progresses, fans and analysts alike are keen to observe how India responds to this formidable challenge.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current lead of South Africa in the Test match?
As of now, South Africa has extended their lead to 508 runs against India.
Who are the key South African players contributing to the lead?
Key players include Ryan Rickleton, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, and Tony de Zorzi, with notable performances throughout the innings.
What was the performance of India's bowlers?
India's bowlers, particularly Jadeja and Sundar, managed to take crucial wickets but struggled to contain the scoring rate against a solid South African batting lineup.
When is the next session of play scheduled?
There are four sessions remaining in the match, providing ample time for both teams to influence the outcome.
