As the second Test between India and South Africa gets underway in Guwahati, the focus has once again shifted to the condition of the pitch—especially after the dramatic events in Kolkata. With India needing a win to level the two-match series, the Barsapara Stadium surface has drawn widespread attention just moments before the start of play.
Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik offered an early look at the wicket, noting visible grass coverage and predicting a very different contest compared to the spin-friendly track at Eden Gardens. He commented on social media that the opening hour could prove difficult for batters, setting the stage for a far more balanced encounter.
Rishabh Pant, leading India in the absence of regular captain Shubman Gill, also shared his assessment at the toss. The stand-in skipper stated that the pitch appeared good for batting, while acknowledging that bowling first wouldn’t be a disadvantage. Unfortunately for India, the toss continued to go against them as South African captain Temba Bavuma chose to bat first.
India made two changes for the match, adding Sai Sudharsan and Nitish Kumar Reddy in place of Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, the latter ruled out due to a neck injury suffered during the previous Test. South Africa brought in Senuran Muthusamy for Corbin Bosch as they aimed to build on their strong start.
The pitch debate had intensified after former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly revealed that the Kolkata surface was deliberately left dry at India’s request. Head coach Gautam Gambhir later confirmed the plan but also admitted that the batting unit failed to execute while chasing a modest target of 124. Several former players, including Anil Kumble, Michael Vaughan and Dale Steyn, suggested that a more balanced wicket would have been better for the contest.
With Guwahati offering more grass and early movement, both teams anticipate a challenge that differs sharply from the series opener. The conditions are expected to test patience, technique, and adaptability from the very first session.