South Africa continued their good fortune with the toss in the Guwahati Test, opting to bat first after captain Temba Bavuma called correctly. The visitors already lead the two-match series 1-0 and will once again enjoy the best of the batting conditions on a surface that looks firm and consistent.
With Shubman Gill ruled out, India were forced into strategic changes. Sai Sudharsan has been drafted in to replace Gill and is expected to slot in at either No.3 or No.4—positions he has handled previously. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy also comes into the XI as India aim to retain the left-right balance in their middle order. Axar Patel makes way, marking one of two important adjustments for the hosts.
This match also marks a special moment for Rishabh Pant, who becomes only the second wicketkeeper after MS Dhoni to lead the Indian Test side. Pant expressed his pride ahead of the game, noting that although the wicket looks good for batting, bowling first wouldn’t have been a bad option either. He also shared that Gill was eager to play but is still recovering and expected to return strongly.
South Africa made just one change, bringing in Senuran Muthusamy for all-rounder Corbin Bosch. Bavuma praised the pitch conditions, stating that there were no visible cracks and that his team would look to post a strong first-innings total.
Captains’ Reactions to the Pitch
Rishabh Pant: Pant described the leadership opportunity as a proud moment and expressed confidence in the playing conditions. He reiterated that Gill is recovering and will likely bounce back soon.
Temba Bavuma: Bavuma highlighted the importance of starting afresh in the second Test, emphasizing the pitch’s consistency and the team’s plan to put up a solid score after opting to bat first.
Playing XIs for the Guwahati Test
South Africa:
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (w), Marco Jansen, Senuran Muthusamy, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj
India:
KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel, Rishabh Pant (w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
