India's Himalayan Task Against South Africa in Guwahati Test
The Indian cricket team faces an almost impossible challenge as they enter the fifth and final day of the second Test against South Africa at the Guwahati stadium. India need 522 runs to win the match, a target that would rewrite record books if achieved, while the prospect of batting out the entire day for a draw appears equally daunting given their batting struggles in the series.
Early Wickets Compound India's Woes
Day 4 ended on a disastrous note for the hosts as they lost both openers with just 21 runs on the board. Yashasvi Jaiswal fell to Marco Jansen while attempting his trademark cut shot, continuing a pattern of dismissals that has raised questions about his shot selection. The experienced KL Rahul was clean bowled by Simon Harmer, who produced a delightful delivery that beat the batsman's defense.
With only eight wickets remaining and a mammoth target ahead, South Africa have emerged as overwhelming favorites to level the series. The Proteas bowlers, led by Jansen and Harmer, looked menacing in the brief period they had with the ball on Day 4, suggesting a long and difficult day ahead for the Indian batsmen.
Controversial Comments Add Spice to Contest
The match has gained additional intrigue following South Africa coach Shukri Conrad's 'grovel' comment, which has raised eyebrows in the cricketing community. The remark has drawn parallels with former England captain Tony Greig's infamous 1976 comment against West Indies, which backfired spectacularly as his team was thrashed in the series.
Whether Conrad's words will serve as motivation for the Indian team remains to be seen, but they have certainly added an extra layer of drama to what promises to be a gripping final day of Test cricket. The Indian camp will be hoping their batsmen can channel any frustration into a determined batting performance.
As the teams prepare for the final day's play on November 26, 2025, all eyes will be on whether India can produce one of the great rearguard actions in Test history or if South Africa will complete a comprehensive victory to square the series.
