Guwahati: South Africa batters maintained their calm and composure on Day 4 of the ongoing second Test here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium before they declared, setting 549 as the target for India. The visitors extended their lead on the day, strengthening their position in the game. What South Africa missed was Tisten Stubbs failing to complete century. As Day 4 started, South Africa's openers Ryan Rickleton and Aiden Markram appeared in control as they started the first session smoothly, increasing their overnight score of 26/0 to 58/1 before the former was dismissed. The Proteas made consistent progress in the morning, mainly thanks to Rickleton, who got some fortunate breaks on his way to 35 before being dismissed by Jadeja while trying a big shot, IANS reported.
The pitch remained stable during the first session, indicating no issues. Washington Sundar delivered a commendable spell early on, tactfully varying his pace and bowling noticeably slower to control the run rate.
The openers appeared safe against the seamers and maintained a steady run rate, but their cautious strategy against the spinners led to a few soft dismissals, which was surprising given their commanding position in the game. Jadeja took both openers in the first session, and Temba Bavuma was dismissed easily at leg slip off Sundar.
However, Zorzi and Stubbs found gaps for regular boundaries before the two sides took tea. In the second session, South Africa increased their lead to over 400 runs as the partnership brought fresh energy into the innings.
De Zorzi, in particular, played aggressively, using the sweep shot effectively to score several boundaries on the leg side and keep the spinners uncertain. He gave the visitors some impetus, while Stubbs hung around and took his time getting going.