India are facing a tough situation in their two-Test series against South Africa. They are 1-0 down with just one day left in the final Test in Guwahati. Chasing a massive target of 549, India are struggling at 27 for 2, and their best possible outcome is to avoid defeat and finish the series 1-0. If they lose, it will be their second home series loss in three, following a 3-0 whitewash by New Zealand last year which ended a 12-year streak of 17 consecutive home-series wins.
Allrounder Ravindra Jadeja believes that managing to save the Test would be a “win-win situation” for India. He said the team must take the final day session by session and avoid losing early wickets to build pressure on the bowlers. Although English isn’t Jadeja’s first language, his intent was clear: surviving the final day would feel as good as a win.
Reflecting on India’s dominant 3-0 win over South Africa at home in 2019, Jadeja said the only major difference this time has been the toss. India won all the tosses in 2019, while South Africa have won both in this series. He emphasised the importance of trusting their defence and staying positive.
Jadeja, a key part of India’s dominant run from 2012 to 2024, said difficult phases like this are part of cricket. With several senior players having retired, he believes this challenging period will help the youngsters learn and grow. He urged the team to remain positive and give their best, adding that even if they don’t succeed, the experience will help them improve for the future.
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