How Did a Solid 74-Run Partnership Elevate South Africa to 156/2?
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Synopsis
On day one of the second Test, South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs formed a solid 74-run partnership, leading the team to a total of 156/2 at lunch. With strong batting and strategic plays, South Africa looks poised for a commanding score against India.
Key Takeaways
- Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs formed a crucial 74-run partnership.
- South Africa reached 156/2 at lunch on day one.
- Kuldeep Yadav's early wicket shifted momentum briefly.
- The pitch has provided true bounce with minimal assistance for bowlers.
- India will need to induce mistakes from South Africa to regain control.
Guwahati, Nov 22 (NationPress) A solid 74-run partnership between captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs propelled South Africa to 156/2 in 55 overs at lunch on day one of the second Test against India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
After the break, Kuldeep Yadav made an early impact by dismissing Ryan Rickelton, yet Stubbs and Bavuma maintained their composure, forming an unbroken alliance that kept the scoreboard ticking. Bavuma concluded the session unbeaten on 36 from 86 balls, while Stubbs also remained not out, scoring 32 from 82 deliveries.
The pair started cautiously, taking time to evaluate the conditions before capitalizing on any loose deliveries, thereby positioning the visitors well to secure a formidable score on a pitch that has provided consistent bounce with minimal aid for bowlers.
The session began dramatically for India as Kuldeep Yadav delivered a flighted ball that drifted in before spinning away, leading to Ryan Rickelton's outside edge being caught by Rishabh Pant, leaving South Africa to lose both set batters shortly thereafter.
Following a quiet period, Bavuma responded by hitting Kuldeep over mid-on for four, while Stubbs found an edge off Mohammed Siraj for a boundary. Bavuma continued attacking Siraj with successive boundaries and Stubbs showcased his aggression by lofting Kuldeep for six.
Despite testing moments from Kuldeep and Ravindra Jadeja, the duo remained steadfast. Bavuma, who survived an lbw appeal from Jadeja—leading India to waste a review—along with Stubbs, showcased their resilience. With minimal support for the spinners, India opted for pace from both ends, but the runs continued to accumulate.
India faced a scare when Mohammed Siraj sustained a knee injury following a collision with Stubbs while sprinting for a quick single. Stubbs was quick to check on Siraj, and after treatment from the physio, play resumed after a brief pause.
The attendance grew slightly as the second session progressed, with South Africa holding their ground against disciplined Indian bowling. This session epitomized classic Test cricket, featuring determined batting from South Africa and relentless precision from India's bowlers.
Once again, South Africa dominated the second session, while India would be content with conceding just 74 runs and will need to induce a mistake from the visitors to regain momentum in the match.
Brief Scores: South Africa 156/2 in 55 overs (Aiden Markram 38, Temba Bavuma 36 not out; Jasprit Bumrah 1-17, Kuldeep Yadav 1-27) against India.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of South Africa's solid start in the second Test against India. With effective partnerships and strategic plays, the team is well-positioned to capitalize on their current momentum. The focus will be on how India responds to this challenge and if they can turn the tide in the upcoming sessions.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of South Africa at lunch on day one?
South Africa scored 156 for 2 in 55 overs at lunch on day one.
Who are the key players contributing to South Africa's score?
Captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs were the key contributors with a solid partnership.
What challenges did South Africa face during their innings?
South Africa faced a challenge when Ryan Rickelton was dismissed early in the session.
