South Africa strengthened their grip on day three, as India were left with a mountain to climb in the second Test in Guwahati on Monday.
When stumps were drawn, the Proteas had reached 26 without loss in their second innings, holding a 314-run lead with Ryan Rickelton on 13 not out and Aiden Markram unbeaten on 12.
Earlier, after resuming their first innings at 9/0 in the morning session, India were well restricted by South Africa’s bowling attack, which was led by seamer Marco Jansen.
Opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal was the only member of India’s line-up who reached a half-century, making 58 runs off 97 balls, as the hosts were bowled out for 201 midway through the final session.
Jansen flaunts his form
Jansen, who hit a career-best 93 runs in South Africa’s first innings the day before, was superb with the ball, taking 6/58 – his fourth Test five-wicket haul – as he ripped through the home team’s middle-order.
Spin bowler Simon Harmer also made a valuable contribution, grabbing 3/64.
While the Proteas took a 288-run first innings lead, they opted not to enforce the follow-on, returning to bat shortly before the close of play as they looked to extend their advantage with two days of action still remaining.
‘A good day for the chaps’
Jansen credited his Proteas teammates for a solid all-round effort as they took control of the match.
“Once we saw there was bounce and pace in the wicket, we tried to utilise it,” the all-rounder said.
“It was a good day for the chaps, myself in particular. The spinners did a really good job when the ball wasn’t moving too much.”
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