On the first day of the Guwahati Test, India’s left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav produced a brilliant display, taking 3 wickets and keeping South Africa in check. Despite a solid start from the Proteas openers, no batsman could convert their innings into a big score. By the close of play, South Africa were 247/6 in 81.5 overs.
Ben Stokes’ left-arm spin might have been imaginary here, but India’s actual bowling attack proved lethal. Kuldeep picked up 3 wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja claimed one each.
South Africa’s innings began well, with Markram and Rassie van der Dussen offering resistance. However, before lunch, Bumrah removed Markram for 38, giving India the first breakthrough. Kuldeep struck soon after, dismissing Ryan Rickelton for 35.
Captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs then formed a brief resistance partnership. Bavuma displayed his experience, hitting two consecutive boundaries off Siraj, while reaching his 1000th Test run milestone. Stubbs reached 49 before succumbing to Kuldeep’s spin, and Bavuma fell for 41. Wayne Moolman and Tony de Zorzi offered some fight, but Siraj took the final wicket of the day, ending South Africa’s innings at 247/6.
Day 1 Scorecard (Summary)
| Player | Runs |
|---|---|
| Stubs | 49 |
| Bavuma | 41 |
| Markram | 38 |
| Rickelton | 35 |
| Kuldeep Yadav | 3/48 |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 1 wicket |
| Mohammed Siraj | 1 wicket |
| Ravindra Jadeja | 1 wicket |
India can take comfort from Kuldeep’s bowling spell, which prevented South Africa from dominating. On Day 2, the Proteas will need to build a significant partnership to set a challenging target.
