South Africa defeated India by a massive 408 runs in the 2nd Test at Guwahati, completing a 2–0 series whitewash on Indian soil after 25 long years. The win is one of South Africa’s biggest in Test cricket and also India’s heaviest home defeat by runs.
Pant Led India in Gill’s Absence
Regular captain Shubman Gill missed the match due to a neck injury.
In his place, Rishabh Pant took charge as India’s stand-in captain.
Pant showed positive intent, gave quick decisions, and kept the team calm, but India could not handle South Africa’s strong performance.
How the Match Unfolded
South Africa’s Strong Start
- SA scored 489 in the first innings.
- Senuran Muthusamy (109) and Marco Jansen (93) played brilliant knocks.
- India struggled but reached 201, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) and Washington Sundar (48) fighting back.
Proteas Take Complete Control
In the second innings, SA reached 260/5, with:
- Tristan Stubbs – 94
- Tony de Zorzi – 49
They set India a huge target of 549 runs.
India Collapse Under Pressure
India were bowled out for 140.
- Ravindra Jadeja top-scored with 54
- South Africa’s spinners destroyed India:
- Simon Harmer – 6/37
- Keshav Maharaj – 2/37 (including the final wicket)
- Marco Jansen took a stunning diving catch to dismiss Mohammed Siraj and end the match.
Records Broken in This Test
- India’s biggest Test defeat at home (408 runs)
- South Africa’s biggest Test win vs India by runs
- Aiden Markram created history with 9 catches, the most by a fielder in a Test match
- India failed to cross 250 runs in any innings of a home Test series for the first time
Historic Series Win for South Africa
This is only the second time South Africa have whitewashed India in Tests (first was in 2000).
It is also their first Test series win in India after 25 years.
Captain Temba Bavuma and his team celebrated a memorable achievement, showing discipline, patience, and confidence throughout the series.
Pant’s Captaincy: A Positive Sign
Even though India lost heavily, Pant’s attitude impressed many:
- Calm and confident
- Quick field changes
- Good communication with bowlers
His leadership looked refreshing, and he remains a strong option until Gill returns.
