WEB DESK: Guwahati bore witness to a masterful cricketing showcase as South Africa outclassed India on home turf, achieving a record-breaking 408-run victory in the second Test and securing a comprehensive 2-0 series sweep.
This triumph marks South Africa’s first Test series victory in India in 25 years, representing a historic feat for captain Temba Bavuma, who remains unbeaten in his Test captaincy tenure. Bavuma joins Hansie Cronje as just the second South African skipper to guide his team to a series win against India on their home soil.
Pursuing a daunting target of 549 runs, India resumed play at 27/2 but quickly unraveled under the bowling prowess of Simon Harmer. The off-spinner sent nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav packing for five runs with a straight delivery, triggering an irreversible collapse. Harmer delivered an outstanding performance, finishing with figures of 6/37 as India crumbled to 140 all out in 63.5 overs.
While chasing such a massive total was always unrealistic, the fashion in which India folded will no doubt weigh heavily on the minds of their supporters. The Barsapara pitch stood out as one of India’s finest surfaces in recent years, offering a balanced contest for players. Batters with strong technique found runs, pace bowlers hitting precise lengths thrived, and spinners with skillful variations held the upper hand.
South Africa’s dominance spanned every aspect of the game. This series victory also made them the first visiting team to achieve multiple series whitewashes in India, cementing their reputation as reigning world champions.
