Jaiswal Catch Removes Bavuma, IND vs SA, Guwahati Test Day 1

The second cricket match between India and South Africa commenced at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on November 22, 2025, with the visiting team establishing an initial advantage on a day marked by moments of exceptional play—most notably Yashasvi Jaiswal’s remarkable catch to dismiss the South African captain, Temba Bavuma. South Africa, choosing to bat after winning the coin toss, saw their opening batsmen create a solid base before the Indian bowlers struggled to gain breakthroughs on a pitch that provided little room for error.

IND vs AUS: Yashasvi Jaiswal grabs a screamer to dismiss Temba Bavuma on Day 1

The game’s notable play occurred during the 58th set of plays. Ravindra Jadeja, utilizing his spin and variation, delivered a full ball outside the off-stump to Bavuma, who attempted to hit it over mid-off but failed to achieve the needed height. Jaiswal, positioned at mid-off, ran quickly and made a full diving effort to secure a low catch just above the ground, removing the in-form Bavuma after he scored a steady 41 off 92 balls. Jaiswal’s display of athleticism and awareness was a crucial relief for India, ending a significant partnership and boosting the morale of the home team.

Jaiswal’s effort resulted from constant pressure applied by India’s spin bowlers. Bavuma, who had appeared confident and steady for most of his innings, was deceived by Jadeja’s spin and flight—but it was Jaiswal’s athletic dive and secure catch that grabbed attention, earning praise from teammates, opponents, and the crowded stadium. The dismissal concluded an 84-run partnership and was instrumental in controlling South Africa’s scoring rate as they seemed ready to increase it.

Here’s the video:

IND vs SA: South Africa steady despite Indian fightback in Guwahati Test

Despite Jaiswal’s brilliant play, South Africa largely controlled Day 1, ending the third period in a comfortable position at 206/5 after 69 sets of plays at a scoring pace of nearly 3 per set. The first period saw dominance by openers Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton, who resisted the initial bowling pressure and formed a vital 82-run partnership. Both were dismissed quickly by Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav, setting the stage for the experienced Bavuma and young Tristan Stubbs.

Stubbs demonstrated composure, balancing caution with aggression, and scored 49 before being dismissed by Kuldeep after the break. The lower middle order withstood some challenging bowling, with Tony de Zorzi (9*) and Senuran Muthusamy (4*) at the field when the final drinks were taken late in the period. Crucial dismissals from India’s spin team, Kuldeep Yadav (3/30) and Jadeja (1/30)—kept India competitive, but South Africa’s strategy of staying at the field and rotating plays was effective.

India’s bowlers had to exert significant effort for each dismissal. Bumrah showed his usual discipline (1/34 in 16), while Mohammed Siraj and Washington Sundar contained but could not break through. The Guwahati field, while offering some spin and slow movement, still rewarded the visitors’ patience and resolve.

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