Guwahati, India – Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his disappointment and concern regarding India's performance on Day 4 of the second Test against South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. South Africa have extended their lead to 395 runs.
Ashwin, known for his analytical insights into the game, took to social media to voice his feelings after witnessing India's lackluster showing. While hoping for a comeback in the second innings, he pointed out the worrying "body language" of the team on the field. His post included a broken-heart emoji, signifying his dismay at the team's attitude and apparent lack of spark.
South Africa resumed their innings on Day 4 at 26/0, building on their already substantial lead of 314 runs. The opening pair of Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton added 59 runs before Ravindra Jadeja provided the breakthrough, dismissing Rickelton for 35. Jadeja struck again, removing Markram for 29. Washington Sundar then joined the wicket-taking spree, dismissing Temba Bavuma for 3.
Despite these breakthroughs, Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs managed to stabilize the innings, with Stubbs toying with the Indian spinners. At the Tea break, South Africa's score stood at 107/3, extending their lead to 395 runs.
Earlier in the match, South Africa had posted a formidable 489 in their first innings, with Senuran Muthusamy scoring a century and Marco Jansen contributing 93. In response, India were bowled out for 201, with only Yashasvi Jaiswal (58) and Washington Sundar (48) offering significant resistance. Marco Jansen was the star performer for South Africa, claiming 6 wickets for 48 runs.
Ashwin's concerns echo the sentiments of many fans and experts who have been critical of India's performance in the Test. Stand-in captain Rishabh Pant's captaincy has also come under scrutiny, with some questioning his tactical decisions and on-field demeanor. Pant's dismissal in the first innings, attempting a big shot when the team was in trouble, drew criticism for being reckless.
With South Africa in a commanding position, India face an uphill task to save the Test and prevent a series loss. The team will need to show significant improvement in their batting and demonstrate the fighting spirit that Ashwin feels is currently lacking.
