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Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir was having an animated chat with the team prior to Day 4’s play. South Africa have dominated India in the two-Test series so far and a win looks like a far-fetched dream in the second Test at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. As Gambhir was seen pointing his finger while addressing the troops, former head coach Anil Kumble said that the Rishabh Pant-led side needs to show character and fight it out in the middle to save the Test.
"You just have to back up those words. You are up against the best side in world cricket today who have won the trophy (WTC). Can't have a better chance of showing your character and win. If we don't win at least we fight it out and ensure we don't lose. Yeah, those words are fine but you need it back it up with performance as well," said Kumble while commentating on Day 4.
India collapse on Day 3
On Day 3, India were bowled out for 201 in 83.5 overs. After Yashasvi Jaiswal departed for 58, India suffered a collapse. The hosts lost six wickets for 27 runs. Then, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav put up a fight, batting for 34.4 overs. Sundar scored 48 whereas Kuldeep faced 134 deliveries to accumulate 19 runs.
South Africa intimidate India
South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma opted not to enforce follow-on and the visitors are set to post a big total on the board, far beyond India's highest fourth innings score against the Proteas in Test history.
In the first session of Day 4, South Africa lost three wickets. While India have made run-scoring tough for them, they had a 395-run lead board.
Salvaging a draw tough on Guwahati track
India are playing the waiting game on Day 4. Whenever Bavuma declares, India will have to pull off a record-breaking run chase. The highest successful run chase for India at home is 387 which came against England in 2008. With the way Guwahati pitch is deteriorating, it will be an uphill task for India’s out-of-form batting lineup to even salvage a draw.
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