India faces a monumental task after South Africa declared their second innings at 260/5 on Day 4, setting a formidable target of 549. At stumps, India was struggling at 27/2, with openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul back in the pavilion. Marco Jansen provided the initial breakthrough, dismissing Jaiswal for 13. Simon Harmer then removed Rahul, exposing India’s middle order early in the chase. Kuldeep Yadav, sent in as a nightwatchman, managed to survive the remaining overs alongside B Sai Sudharsan, ending the day unbeaten. Earlier, South Africa extended their lead thanks to a brilliant 94 from Tristan Stubbs and a crucial 49 from Tony de Zorzi. Ravindra Jadeja was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking wickets, but South Africa’s batting depth proved too much. The Proteas controlled the narrative throughout the day, leaving India with a significant uphill battle in their quest to reach the target.
