Guwahati is set to mark its debut as a Test center as India faces South Africa in the second and final match of the series at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. This marks a significant moment, placing Northeast India on the map of Test cricket. After a demoralizing 30-run defeat in the first Test in Kolkata, India is under pressure to win this match and level the series. A draw or another loss would mean South Africa secures their first series victory in India in 25 years.

The toss is scheduled for 8:30 AM IST, with the match commencing at 9:00 AM IST. The early start is due to the early sunrise and sunset times in Guwahati. This has also led to a reversal of the traditional lunch and tea break timings. Tea will be taken at 11:00 AM, followed by lunch at 1:20 PM.

Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the match due to a neck injury, resulting in Rishabh Pant stepping in to captain the Indian side. This makes Pant the first Indian wicketkeeper since MS Dhoni to captain India in the longest format of the game. Reports suggest that Sai Sudharsan will replace Gill in the playing XI, batting at number 3, while Dhruv Jurel will move down to number 4. South Africa will be without Kagiso Rabada due to injury, as confirmed by captain Temba Bavuma. There are also doubts about Simon Harmer's participation due to a shoulder injury.

The Guwahati pitch is expected to favor batting early on before offering more assistance to spin bowlers as the match progresses. This Test match will also be India's 300th men's Test in the country.

In terms of head-to-head records, India and South Africa have played 45 Test matches, with India winning 16 and South Africa winning 19. Ten matches have ended in a draw. The pressure is on India to level the series, while South Africa aims for a rare series victory in India.

The match will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network and livestreamed on Disney+ Hotstar.