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The caravan of the South Africa tour of India moves to the North East as the hosts look to bounce back from a shocking defeat in Kolkata for the 2nd India vs South Africa Test. The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati is all set to host the decisive second Test starting Saturday, with the series on the line.
Also Read: Temba Bavuma's Ashes jealousy: 'World champions deserve more than two Tests vs India'
For Team India, the 1st Test at Eden Gardens was a pill bitter enough to choke on. Chasing a modest target of 124, the Indian batting lineup crumbled under pressure, bowled out for just 93. It was a game India "should have had in the bag" after restricting the Proteas effectively in the first innings, but a spirited South African bowling display, and a masterclass in patience from Temba Bavuma, turned the tables.
The context for this second India vs South Africa match is heavy. India isn't just fighting to save the series; they are fighting to restore confidence. To make matters tougher, regular skipper Shubman Gill has been ruled out with a neck injury, handing the captaincy reins to Rishabh Pant. Can a wounded India level the series, or will the Proteas script a historic series sweep on Indian soil?
Key Players to Watch (India)
1. Rishabh Pant
All eyes will be on the stand-in skipper. After the batting collapse in Kolkata, Pant needs to lead from the front. His aggressive style is a double-edged sword, but on a result-oriented track, his ability to counter-attack could be the difference between a low score and a winning total.
2. Jasprit Bumrah
Bumrah was one of the few positives in the last game, looking threatening every time he steamed in. With the Guwahati pitch offering early moisture, his new-ball spell will be crucial to dismantle South Africa’s top order early.
3. Yashasvi Jaiswal
The young opener missed out in both innings in Kolkata. Known for his hunger for big runs, Jaiswal will be itching to prove a point and provide the solid start India desperately lacked in the first Test.
India Predicted Playing XI
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran/Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (C & WK), Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav.
Key Players to Watch (South Africa)
1. Temba Bavuma
The South African captain played one of the finest innings by a visiting batter in recent times, especially in the India vs South Africa rivalry. His unbeaten 55 in the second innings at Eden Gardens was the difference between the two sides. His composure against spin makes him the most prized wicket for India.
2. Simon Harmer
The off-spinner spun a web around Indian batters in Kolkata, picking up 8 wickets in the match. If the Guwahati track turns, Harmer will again be India’s biggest nightmare.
3. Keshav Maharaj
The experienced spinner will be looking to make his mark in the final match of the series and, in partnership with Harmer, will aim to target India's weak middle order.
South Africa Predicted Playing XI
Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (C), Dewald Brevis, Kyle Verreynne (WK), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Corbin Bosch, Senuran Muthusamy.
Match Overview: India vs South Africa, 2nd Test
Date: November 22–26, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM IST
Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati
India vs South Africa Head-to-Head
Total Matches: 45 India Won: 16 South Africa Won: 19 Draw: 10
Barsapara Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Barsapara is generally a sporting one. Unlike the dustbowl in Kolkata, this track for the India vs South Africa test is expected to offer good bounce and carry for the quicks, especially in the first session due to early morning moisture. However, as the game progresses, spinners will come into play. Batting might be easiest on Days 2 and 3.
Guwahati Weather Report
The weather in Guwahati is expected to be pleasant. The forecast predicts a dry five days with cool mornings (around 18°C) and comfortable afternoons (27°C). Rain is unlikely to play spoilsport, meaning we should get a full game.
India vs South Africa 2nd Test Live Streaming Details
Fans can catch the live action from the India vs South Africa 2nd Test on the Star Sports Network on TV. For digital viewers, the match will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.
