Guwahati: India faced a humiliating 408-run defeat against South Africa in the second Test at Barsapara Stadium, marking their biggest Test loss at home by runs and confirming a 2-0 series sweep for the visitors—South Africa’s first Test series win in India since the 1999-2000 tour.
Chasing an improbable target of 549 and tasked with batting out four sessions, India were bowled out for 140 on Day 5. The collapse was led by South African off-spinner Simon Harmer, who proved unplayable on a turning surface and claimed 6 for 37, his maiden five-wicket haul in India.
Harmer, who had taken eight wickets in Kolkata, finished the series as the standout performer, repeatedly troubling Indian batters with his accuracy and sharp turn.
The only notable resistance came from Ravindra Jadeja, who scored a fighting 54, and Rishabh Pant, who attempted to counterattack before being dismissed while trying to force the pace.
Kuldeep Yadav, Dhruv Jurel and Nitish Reddy fell to disciplined spin bowling, while Washington Sundar’s brief partnership with Jadeja also ended when Harmer struck again.
Mohammed Siraj’s dismissal minutes later sealed the result.India’s top and middle order struggled throughout the innings, with several players falling to spin-induced errors on a surface that offered substantial turn and unpredictable bounce.
While the pitch rewarded bowlers who maintained consistency, the Indian lineup failed to show the expected application and temperament.
This was India’s fifth defeat in their last seven home Tests, raising questions about their form and adaptability.
The lopsided outcome underlined South Africa’s dominance across both Tests, highlighted by disciplined bowling, sharp fielding, and sustained pressure at decisive moments.With this result, India now face significant scrutiny ahead of their upcoming Test assignments.
