India vs South Africa 2nd Test: Google Predicts 69% Chance for Hosts in Must-Win Guwahati Clash

India faces a must-win scenario in the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati. The match runs from November 22 to 26 at the Barsapara Stadium. After a 30-run loss in the first Test at Eden Gardens, India must win to level the series and avoid elimination.

The pressure is immense for the home side. Another loss would hand South Africa the series trophy and mark India’s second home series defeat in three years.

High Stakes and a New Captain for India

Google’s win probability algorithm heavily favors an Indian comeback. It gives the hosts a 69% chance of victory. South Africa’s odds sit at just 24%, with a draw at 7%.

India will be led by stand-in captain Rishabh Pant. Regular skipper Shubman Gill was ruled out due to a neck injury sustained in the first Test. This adds another layer of challenge for the home team.

According to Reuters, the team has been focusing on countering South Africa’s spin threat. Off-spinner Simon Harmer was the destroyer in Kolkata, taking eight wickets in the match.

Analyzing the Path to Victory

India’s success hinges on their top-order batsmen providing a solid start. The new venue at Guwahati is an unknown variable. Both teams will need to adapt quickly to the conditions.

South Africa, as the reigning World Test Champions, will be confident. Their victory in Kolkata was built on disciplined bowling and key batting contributions under pressure.

The absence of South Africa’s pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada due to a rib injury is a significant blow. This could lessen their bowling attack’s potency and give India’s batsmen more breathing room.

For India, the form of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will be crucial. He needs to match Harmer’s impact with both ball and bat to swing the match in India’s favor.

Tactical Battles to Watch

The duel between Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj and South African captain Temba Bavuma will be key. Siraj’s ability to make early inroads could destabilize the Proteas’ innings.

Similarly, how Pant handles Harmer’s spin after being dismissed by him twice in the first Test is a major storyline. His aggressive captaincy and batting response could define the match.

The India vs South Africa 2nd Test is a pivotal moment for the home team’s campaign. All eyes are on Guwahati to see if India can leverage their 69% favoritism and keep their series hopes alive.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the start time for the 2nd Test?

The match in Guwahati will start at 9:00 AM IST. This early start was scheduled to account for the early sunset in the region.

Who is captaining India in the 2nd Test?

Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is leading the side. He steps in for the injured Shubman Gill, who is out with a neck issue.

What is the head-to-head record between these teams?

South Africa narrowly leads the overall Test head-to-head. They have 18 wins to India’s 16, with 10 matches drawn.

How significant is Kagiso Rabada’s absence?

Rabada’s rib injury is a major setback for South Africa. It reduces their pace bowling depth and experience significantly.

Has India ever played a Test at Guwahati before?

No, this will be the first-ever Test match hosted at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. The pitch condition is a key unknown.