Daijiworld Media Network - Guwahati
Guwahati, Nov 25: India’s seasoned spinner Ravindra Jadeja delivered two crucial blows, but South Africa maintained firm control as they reached 107 for 3 at tea in their second innings, extending their overall lead to a commanding 395 on day four of the second Test here on Tuesday.
Jadeja first broke the 59-run opening stand by removing Ryan Rickelton, who made a steady 35 off 64 balls. Moments later, he bowled Aiden Markram for 29 off 84 deliveries, reducing the visitors to 74/2 and offering India a glimmer of hope.
Washington Sundar added to South Africa’s early jitters by dismissing skipper Temba Bavuma, leaving the Proteas struggling at 77/3. However, Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi steadied the innings with calm and calculated batting, remaining unbeaten on 14 and 21 respectively at the tea interval.
South Africa had resumed the day at 26 without loss and added 81 runs in the opening session, steadily tightening their grip on the match.
India, meanwhile, were bowled out for 201 on Monday in reply to South Africa’s imposing first-innings total of 489, giving the visitors a substantial cushion heading into the fourth day.
Brief Scores:
South Africa: 489 & 107/3 in 40 overs (Ryan Rickelton 35, Aiden Markram 29; Ravindra Jadeja 2/20).
India: 201 in 83.5 overs.