• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

IND vs SA 2nd Test: Kuldeep Yadav bluntly analysed the Guwahati pitch as South Africa dominated the proceedings on day 2 and called it like a road after yet another tiring day for the host bowlers. The host had a flying start to the day, but soon things went out of their hands, and Kuldeep's statement showed how challenging it was to play on a pitch that didn't help the bowlers much.

In the post-match press conference, Kuldeep had compared both the pitches of Guwahati and Kolkata and emphasised the difference between these pitches. As per him, the surface in Guwahati was more like a batter-friendly one and gave all the bowlers a hard time.

“Kolkata was different. This was a flat road. That’s the challenge of Test cricket. As a bowler, you want to dominate every day, but when you get good wickets for batting, you must find ways to come back. Yesterday we bowled with great control, but one session with a long partnership pushed us back,” Kuldeep told reporters in the post-match press conference.

Also Read: When Will 2026 T20 World Cup Schedule Be Revealed? Here's Everything You Need To Know

“Overall, everyone put in effort. There wasn’t much help for bowlers — not even the pacers. That’s Test cricket — you have to enjoy it, learn from it, and mature from these situations. You shouldn’t overthink the wicket; just play and adapt. I’m sure the next Test will have a better wicket for bowlers. No complaints,” he said.

From “spicy” Kolkata to a flat Guwahati

Kuldeep made these comments amidst the ongoing debate on pitches in this series. When the host had lost the series opener in Kolkata, everyone slammed the pitch in Eden Gardens for not being batter-friendly. Gautam Gambhir, who is the head coach of this Indian team, was seen defending the pitch and said that this is what they had asked for and that challenges are a part of this format. His statements left everyone confused, with ex-players slamming and saying that the surface had become too bowler-friendly. On the other hand, the pitch in Guwahati is exactly the opposite of this.

The Proteas began their day at 247/6 and scored runs at a steady pace, and had posted a mammoth target of 489 runs. Their lower order scored more than 240 runs after their sixth wicket fell and had turned the tide in their favour. Irrespective of these conditions, Kuldeep still registered figures 4/115 and was the pick among the Indian bowlers.

Also Read: IND vs SA 2nd Test: Marco Jansen's Reaction Goes Viral After Missing Maiden Test Hundred | Watch

The host also began with their chase, where they were 9/0 till stumps, but they still have a huge total to chase.

One session at a time for India

Since the batters are now under pressure, Kuldeep talked about how important it is to bat in a disciplined manner rather than succumbing to the pressure.

"Now the mood in the dressing room is simple — we have to bat well. The first 5–6 overs tomorrow will be important. Every session matters. We’ll take it session by session. We aren’t thinking too much ahead to Day 4 or Day 5. If we bat for five sessions, we’ll be in a good position," he concluded.

The visitors turned the tide of the game after they had lost six wickets on Dzay, as the hosts were supposed to stay calm. Since the pitch won't change dramatically, the Indian batters should spend a long time at the crease, and a strong partnership will help them chase this target.

Also In News