India collapse in Guwahati as South Africa tightens grip with 314-run lead

India suffer a major batting meltdown on Day 3 of the Guwahati Test, leaving South Africa in full control after a disciplined bowling display from Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer.

Day 3 of the Guwahati Test turned into a nightmare for India as the batting unit folded for just 201 runs, handing South Africa a commanding 314-run lead by stumps. The combination of Marco Jansen’s pace assault and Simon Harmer’s control proved far too much for the Indian line-up, which struggled to build partnerships or withstand pressure.

India’s innings began with signs of resistance as KL Rahul held firm for 92 minutes, scoring 22 runs before edging to Aiden Markram in the slips. At the other end, Yashasvi Jaiswal displayed positive intent and struck a fluent half-century, but his stay was short-lived as the momentum slipped away quickly.

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Left-hander Sai Sudharsan played a loose shot to mid-wicket, handing Harmer his second wicket. The slide continued when Dhruv Jurel departed without opening his account, undone by Jansen’s sharp pace. Captain Rishabh Pant attempted a counter-attack but lasted only long enough to score 6, falling while trying to take on Jansen.

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who appeared confident, managed 10 runs before Markram pulled off a stunning catch. Senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja opted for DRS after being beaten by a short ball from Jansen, but the decision did not save him.

The lone phase of stability came through Washington Sundar, who battled hard for 48 runs off 92 balls, quietly absorbing pressure. Kuldeep Yadav also displayed remarkable patience, occupying the crease for 134 minutes and facing 134 deliveries, though he contributed only 19 runs before giving Markram his fifth catch of the innings.

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The end came when Jasprit Bumrah edged behind, closing India’s innings at 201 all out.

In response, South Africa ended the day strongly at 26/0, extending their overall advantage to 314 runs with all wickets intact. With two full days left, India face an uphill battle to avoid defeat in the second Test.