India vs South Africa 2nd Test Day 1 Live Updates: Playing XI & Toss Details
India vs South Africa 2nd Test, Day 1 got underway at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati with South Africa winning the toss and opting to bat first. This match marks a crucial encounter in the two-Test series, and India are looking to bounce back after their defeat in Kolkata.
Toss and Early Batting
South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat, sending Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton to open the innings. India’s bowling attack, led by the new Test captain Rishabh Pant, started proceedings on a spin-friendly Guwahati pitch. Pant expressed optimism despite losing the toss, saying the team would be eager to bowl first and make the most of early conditions.
India’s Playing XI Changes
India made two changes to their lineup following the first Test:
- Nitish Kumar Reddy replaces the absent Shubman Gill, who was eager to play but remains sidelined due to a neck injury.
- Sai Sudharsan comes in for all-rounder Axar Patel to strengthen the batting depth.
Pant, India’s 38th Test captain, emphasized that these changes reflect India’s intent to adapt to conditions and maintain balance in the side.
Impact of Shubman Gill’s Absence
Shubman Gill’s unavailability is a significant blow to India’s top order. Despite this, Rishabh Pant and the Indian squad are confident that the team has sufficient bench strength to perform against a strong South African batting line-up.
South Africa Line-up Adjustments
South Africa have also made a single change, benching Corbin Bosch and bringing in Senuran Muthuswamy. Bavuma’s side aims to capitalize on the toss advantage and set a challenging total for India to chase.
Key Players to Watch
- India: Rishabh Pant (captain), Mohammed Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja, and new entrants Nitish Kumar Reddy and Sai Sudharsan.
- South Africa: Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, and pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada.
Live Updates and Match Situation
Fans following the India vs South Africa 2nd Test live can watch updates across television and streaming platforms. South Africa’s openers are looking to build a strong foundation, while India’s bowlers aim to strike early to gain momentum. The first day is expected to provide insight into how the pitch will behave and how both teams plan their innings strategies.
Conclusion
The second Test is pivotal for India to level the series. With Rishabh Pant leading in the absence of Shubman Gill, and strategic lineup changes, India will look to assert their dominance. Fans can follow live updates, ball-by-ball commentary, and expert analysis throughout Day 1 to keep track of this exciting Test encounter.
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