Guwahati, Nov 22 (NationPress) As South Africa concluded the first day of the second and final Test match against India with a score of 247/6, former Proteas fast bowler Dale Steyn expressed some disappointment over the loss of two wickets late in the day.

After reaching over 200 runs with the loss of just four wickets, South Africa saw Wiaan Mulder (13) and Tony de Zorzi (28) dismissed in quick succession, as the Indian bowlers mounted a strong comeback.

Steyn remarked, "While South Africa might feel somewhat satisfied with their position, there’s certainly a sense of disappointment with the late loss of two wickets. The introduction of the new ball allowed India to break a crucial partnership of about 40 runs. If South Africa had lost three or four wickets, their mood would have been significantly better. Unlike the Kolkata pitch, where wickets fell at a brisk pace, the Guwahati pitch requires patience and consistent pressure. India bowled with impressive discipline, maintaining excellent lines and lengths. When chances arose, they seized them effectively, aided by remarkable catches from Rishabh Pant," Steyn said during the ‘Cricket Live’ broadcast.

He also emphasized the solid partnership between de Zorzi and Senuran Muthusamy, who, at the end of Day One, was batting on a commendable 25 not out. Together, they compiled a responsible 45 runs for the fifth wicket.

"The duo of de Zorzi and Muthusamy displayed great composure. I was slightly taken aback to see Muthusamy come in ahead of Verreynne, but both executed a reliable stand, amassing 45 runs off 83 balls. De Zorzi might feel a bit frustrated, especially with the new ball coming late in the day when there was uncertainty about whether play would continue. Losing a wicket soon afterward can be discouraging," Steyn noted.

"De Zorzi likely anticipated more swing from Siraj, so he might be upset about the shot that led to his dismissal. South Africa would have preferred being five down, but that's cricket — the batsmen currently at the crease need to take advantage of the situation. Batting in such pressure-filled moments is tough, and often, accurate bowling makes it easier," he added.

Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler on the opening day of this inaugural Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, as a resolute Indian side restricted South Africa to 247/6 in 81.5 overs before bad light curtailed the day's play.

The left-arm wrist-spinner achieved figures of 3-48, while Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja each claimed a wicket, rewarding India for their persistence by taking four wickets in the final session. Despite all South African batsmen getting good starts, none managed to convert them into half-centuries.