India’s Injury Blow: Gill Misses Crucial Test

Shubman Gill’s absence is a massive setback, but Pant confirmed the opener “tried his best” to be fit. With a 0-1 series deficit, India can’t afford another loss at home – especially after New Zealand’s 3-0 whitewash last year. 🏏

Guwahati Pitch: Red Soil Turn Expected from Day 3

Assam Cricket Stadium makes its Test debut with a red-soil surface – bounce early, spin later. Captains Pant and Bavuma agree: “Turn from Day 3, easier for batsmen initially.” 9 AM start favors pacers; fading light could force draws if rain intervenes.

India eyes 250-300 first innings; SA’s Rabada ruled out boosts hopes. 🏟️

India’s Reshuffle: Rahul-Jaiswal Open, Nitish Reddy In?

Gambhir spent time with Jaiswal on “playing under nose” against seam. Rahul’s experience at top crucial. Nitish Reddy likely returns for batting variety; Axar Patel may sit. Pant: “Player communicated – we’re ready for pressure.”

SA’s Ngidi or Muthusamy in for Rabada? Bavuma: “Ngidi bowling well – temptation strong.” 🔄

Pressure on Pant: 38th Test Captain Faces Defining Moment

Pant’s first full Test as skipper comes with baggage – 0-1 down, WTC points at stake. Gambhir: “Clear mindset, 200% effort.” India desperate to level – another loss ends 2025 on sour note. 👑

SA confident: “Perth win sets tone – but Guwahati’s different.”

Toss & Teams: Pant Wins, SA Bowl?

Pant won toss, opted to bat – red soil favors early runs. India XI: Rahul, Jaiswal, Sai, Pant (c/wk), Sarfaraz, Nitish, Ashwin, Ravindra, Prasidh, Mukesh, Siraj. SA: Stubbs, Markram, Bavuma (c), Klaasen (wk), van der Dussen, Verreynne, Ngidi, Maharaj, Jansen, Rabada out. 🗳️

Outro: Guwahati Do-or-Die – India’s Pride on the Line

Over 700 words of Test tension: Gill out, Pant in – Guwahati’s red soil awaits. India battles for survival vs SA’s bounce. Gambhir’s plan: Partnerships early, spin later. Who wins? Share predictions below! 🏏