The ongoing second Test between India and South Africa is seeing India in a precarious position on Day 4. With Jasprit Bumrah beginning the day with a tidy opening over, South Africa managed to edge ahead with a score of 27 runs without losing a wicket in the first nine overs, establishing a significant lead of 315 runs. The pitch conditions appear to favor the visitors, and the Indian bowlers will need to step up to salvage their innings.
Controversially, former India captain Kris Srikkanth has voiced his disappointment with team management’s decision to select Nitish Kumar Reddy over Axar Patel. He expressed skepticism regarding Reddy's credentials as an all-rounder, questioning his bowling skills and asserting that a single performance does not define a player’s capability.
In contrast, Washington Sundar, who scored 48 runs for India in the first innings, downplayed concerns about the pitch, stating that it was a good batting track and asserting that the batting side simply fell short in execution. According to Sundar, had the team applied themselves better, they would have seen more runs on the board.
The commentary on India’s cricket woes does not end there. Former wicketkeeper Sreevats Goswami suggests that Virat Kohli should have continued his Test career instead of shifting his focus to ODIs. He emphasized that Kohli’s absence is keenly felt, particularly the energy and passion he contributed to the team.
As for South Africa, Marc Jansen, who impressively took six wickets in the first innings, noted that the pitch is anticipated to start showing more turn as the match progresses, making it even more challenging for the Indian batsmen. He expressed optimism about how the spinners will play a crucial role as the game advances.
The outcome of the match remains uncertain. If India hopes for a comeback, it is imperative that Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav deliver effective performances. As South Africa looks to score quickly, there remains the possibility of taking wickets, making Day 4 an essential day in this cricketing fixture. The Indian team is under pressure to avoid losing a home Test series for the second time within a year. The fans are eager to see whether the home team can rally back and secure a respectable finish in this crucial encounter.