The first day of the Guwahati Test was much more like any of those interminable rambling discussions when everyone is present and yet hardly anybody talks of anything of substance. South Africa walked proudly into the world, and sew two eighty-run stands, and yet somehow got themselves slightly underwater by Stumps. According to sources, even the press box groaned when yet another promising knock evaporated like steam off a morning chai.
The Guwahati Test and Its Bumpy Rhythm
India’s bowlers didn’t dominate so much as they tapped South Africa on the shoulder every few overs and whispered, “Hey buddy… time to go.” Each of the top seven reached double digits, yet only two crossed forty. It is dedication to symmetry, at any rate. The pitch gave bouncing, nipping, and as much mischief as was required to make the batters all about as jumpy as though they were avoiding mosquitoes.
My Take: The Guwahati Test Exposed Nerves
Look, let’s keep it real. South Africa looked good until they… didn’t. Bavuma danced, Stubbs swung freely, and then both wandered off just when their innings were about to matter. It was not so much like Test discipline but more like watching a show and leaving right before the finale. India, in the uproar took her ease–Kuldeep webbing, Bumrah snarling and Siraj clipping the top off the innings in his dying light.
My opinion? This match is one heartbeat away from breaking open. Someone’s about to have a day. And it won’t be subtle.
What the Guwahati Test Means Going Ahead
South Africa’s 247/6 is neither a disaster nor a delight. It’s the kind of score that makes coaches pace hotel corridors and reach for stale biscuits. India will wake up knowing they’re half a session from full control, provided they don’t let the tail wag like a labrador spotting a treat.
If Day 1 taught us anything, it’s that this Test isn’t playing by the rules. It’s messy. It’s dramatic. And it’s about to get spicy.
