IND vs SA 2nd Test: Can India Escape Trouble and Rewrite Their Fate in Guwahati?

Guwahati: Till recently, it was difficult for any team to go to India and win a Test. But the situation seems to be changing in the last 13-14 months. Team India's domestic dominance has weakened, and this was started by New Zealand last year. Now South Africa stands in a position to highlight the same weakness again. The second test starting on November 22 in Guwahati has become a battle to save the reputation of Team India.

What opened the door for visiting teams?

In October-November 2024, New Zealand changed history by defeating India 3-0. India lost a Test series to New Zealand for the first time at home and faced a clean sweep at home for the first time in Test history. This was one of the most stinging defeats for Team India. Now after about 13 months, South Africa is also close to joining the same list.

What is the current situation after the first test?

In the first Test played in Kolkata, South Africa created a sensation and defeated India in two and a half days and took a 1-0 lead in the series. Now India needs victory at any cost in Guwahati. The problem is that the environment and pitch of Guwahati are new for both the teams. Along with this, India is also under mental pressure, especially due to the sharp defeat and captain Shubman Gill being out due to injury.

Who will lead India, and what challenges does he face?

Now the command is in the hands of Rishabh Pant. He has gotten India out of trouble with his batting on many occasions, but captaincy in Test is a completely new experience for him. This time the responsibility will not only be to score runs but also to make decisions. The most difficult decision is the selection of the playing-11, which became a major reason for criticism in the last match.

What changes can India make in the playing XI?

Sai Sudarshan is likely to replace Gill. Nitish Kumar Reddy can be given a chance in place of Akshar Patel as a spin all-rounder. But the real challenge is to decide the batting order. Will Washington Sundar be sent down the order again? Will Jurel or Nitish step up to replace Gill? These decisions will decide the direction of the match.

Why is the Guwahati Test special?

Guwahati is hosting the test for the first time. This is going to be India's 30th test venue. This is going to be another new chapter in the Test hosting, which started from Mumbai Gymkhana in 1933. Now it remains to be seen whether India makes this occasion memorable or not.

Can South Africa end their 25-year wait?

This match is a big opportunity for South Africa. They just need a draw, and the series will be won 1-0. They won the last and only series in India in 1999–2000. This time he is standing close to ending the wait of 25 years.