Guwahati:South Africa seized full control of the second Test against India after a brilliant maiden century from Senuran Muthusamy and a blistering 93 from Marco Jansen powered the visitors to an imposing 489 all out on day two at India’s newest Test venue in Guwahati.
Muthusamy, calm and composed throughout a grinding innings, crafted a superb 109 off 192 balls, raising his bat to a standing ovation after punching Mohammed Siraj through the off side to reach his first Test hundred. His effort laid the foundation for South Africa’s dominance, but it was Jansen who delivered the knockout blow.
The 6-foot-8 all-rounder launched a counter-attacking assault, smashing six fours and seven towering sixes during his 91-ball stay. His aggressive strokeplay frustrated India’s bowlers as he shepherded the tail, surpassing his previous Test best of 84* and joining Shahid Afridi for the joint-most sixes in a Test innings against India.
Jansen was eventually dismissed for 93 when he dragged a delivery from Kuldeep Yadav onto his stumps, ending South Africa’s innings after 151.1 overs. Kuldeep finished with four wickets, while India’s spinners — led by Ravindra Jadeja — finally made inroads after a wicketless morning session.
Speaking after his milestone knock, Muthusamy praised his partner:
“Marco was sublime when he came in. He’s such a clean striker of the ball and showcased his skills brilliantly today. It was an absolute treat to watch from the other end.”
Earlier in the day, Muthusamy and Kyle Verreynne (45) stitched together a steady partnership in a sedate first hour that yielded just 28 runs. Muthusamy survived a close call on 48 when Jadeja trapped him lbw, but a successful review revealed a faint glove touch, overturning the decision.
India, facing a massive reply, reached 9 for no loss in 6.1 overs before bad light forced an early end to the day. Yashasvi Jaiswal (7) and stand-in opener KL Rahul (2) safely negotiated the final few overs but will face an uphill task on day three as they trail by 480 runs.
With South Africa having won the opening Test, the visitors are now well-placed in the hunt for their first series win on Indian soil in 25 years.
