Day 4 of the India vs South Africa second Test brought high drama, relentless pressure, and a gripping shift in momentum. South Africa continued to dictate the pace of the match, and despite India’s attempt to fight back, the visitors entered the final day with complete control. Because the target stood at a massive 522 runs, the Indian dressing room knew the final innings needed something extraordinary.
However, as stumps approached, India stumbled to 27/2, which placed the Proteas in a commanding position heading into Day 5.
India vs South Africa: South Africa Tighten Their Grip with 489 in First Innings
The match had already tilted firmly in South Africa’s favour by the time Day 4 began. With a giant first-innings score of 489, the Proteas created the ideal foundation. Their batters dominated from the opening day, stitched partnerships throughout the innings, and ensured that India stayed under pressure. Because of that foundation, they carried the advantage into the rest of the match.
Several partnerships kept India in the field for long spells. While India searched for breakthroughs, the visiting side continued to rotate strike, convert starts, and build towards a big total. As the innings progressed, India’s bowlers tried different fields, changed angles, and used reverse swing, but the South African batters showed clarity and patience.
The total of 489 meant India needed to bat long and bat well to stay competitive. Yet the Indian response faltered, as the hosts were bowled out for 201, leaving South Africa with a 288-run cushion.
India vs South Africa: South Africa Declare at 260/5 and Set A Massive Target
South Africa’s intent remained clear from the moment they padded up for their second innings. They batted quickly, pushed for boundaries, and refused to allow Indian bowlers to settle. Because the pitch was slowing down and showing inconsistent bounce, South Africa used those conditions smartly and avoided unnecessary risks.
The Proteas declared confidently at 260/5, setting India a target of 522 runs, one of the highest targets ever set against India in home Tests. This decision showed that South Africa trusted their bowling attack and believed the pitch would only get tougher for batting.
The declaration was perfectly timed because it left India a tricky session to survive before stumps on Day 4. With fielders stationed around the bat and bowlers attacking the stumps, South Africa stayed aggressive with every delivery.
India vs South Africa: India Collapse to 27/2 at Stumps on Day 4
The Indian innings began under immense pressure, and it showed almost immediately. Because the target was unrealistic and survival was the priority, India started cautiously. However, the disciplined South African attack broke through quickly.
Early Wickets and Pressure
India lost both openers early in the chase. Sai Sudharsan tried to defend tight lines but fell for 2 off 25 balls, unable to break free from the pressure. The next breakthrough came soon after, as South Africa continued to pitch the ball in probing areas.
Kuldeep Yadav came in as a nightwatchman and remained unbeaten on 4 off 22 balls. Although he survived till stumps, the pressure never eased. India closed the day at:
India: 27/2 (need 522 runs)
Kuldeep Yadav: 4 (22)*
Sai Sudharsan: 2 (25)*
Harmer: 3.5 overs, 2 maidens, 1 run, 1 wicket
The lines, lengths, and discipline from the South African bowlers made scoring nearly impossible. Because the surface offered turn and variable bounce, the Indian batters had to deal with both skill and conditions.
Pressure Builds: Turning Pitch and Tough Conditions
Day 4 showed that batting on this pitch was becoming increasingly difficult. The bounce stayed low from one end, while the turn grew sharper from the other. Because Simon Harmer and the rest of the attack used the rough patches well, India had to constantly defend deliveries that spat up or skidded on.
The Indian middle order—packed with experienced names—knew Day 5 would demand an extraordinary defensive effort.
However, the ask of 522 runs meant India needed their best-ever fourth-innings performance. Because only a handful of teams in Test history have chased such a target, the Indian dressing room likely focused more on surviving rather than chasing.
Tactical Battle: How South Africa Outplayed India
1. South Africa’s Smart Declaration
By declaring early at 260/5, South Africa ensured they had the perfect window to attack India for the final 15–18 overs of the day. This move created pressure and gave them exactly what they needed—early wickets.
2. Disciplined Bowling and Field Placements
Because Harmer bowled into the rough from over the wicket, India’s left-handers struggled to predict turn. The fast bowlers supported him with tight channels, using every bit of the pitch to their advantage.
3. India’s Defensive Mindset
India approached the final session cautiously because survival became the priority. However, this allowed South Africa to bowl consistently and set attacking fields.
The Road Ahead for India
To survive Day 5, India must bat session by session. They need a long partnership early in the morning and must avoid the regular collapses seen throughout the India vs South Africa series so far. Because the pitch will only deteriorate further, every run and every defensive stroke will matter.
Kuldeep Yadav may continue to hold one end, but the responsibility will eventually fall on the experienced middle order. India require not only technical skill but also extreme patience and resilience.
South Africa’s Path to Victory
South Africa already have one hand on the match because India are still 522 runs away. Their bowlers will come fresh on Day 5, and Harmer will play the lead role again. Because the pitch is perfect for him, his spell may decide the match within the first session.
If South Africa manage to take two or three wickets early, the match might end quickly. However, cricket often surprises fans, and India will hope for their own miracle.
Match Summary at Stumps – Day 4
- South Africa 1st Innings: 489
- India 1st Innings: 201
- South Africa 2nd Innings: 260/5 declared
- India 2nd Innings (Target: 522): 27/2
- Kuldeep Yadav 4* (22)
- Sai Sudharsan 2 (25)
- Harmer 3.5-2-1-1
- India need 522 runs, South Africa need 8 wickets.
Final Thoughts
The India vs South Africa Test 2 Day 4 belonged completely to the visitors. They showed discipline, patience, control, and tactical clarity. India now face one of the toughest final days in recent Test history.
Because this match has swung heavily in South Africa’s favour, Day 5 will be about survival, pride, and resistance for India rather than chasing the impossible.
If India manage to hold on and fight deep into the day, it will be one of their greatest defensive efforts. Otherwise, South Africa look set to secure a memorable overseas Test victory.
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