India hit immovable roadblock as they stare at uphill task on final day of second Test

India found themselves in deeper woes at the end of Day 4 in the second Test as they stood against a daunting task, needing to chase down a target of 522 runs after South Africa declared on 260/5.

Starting the day on 26/0, South Africa lost three wickets in quick succession as India claimed the scalps of Ryan Rickelton (35), Aiden Markram (29) and Temba Bavuma (3). Stationed at 77/3, the visitors launched a counter-offensive pushing India on the backfoot again.

A 101-run stand between Tristan Stubbs (94) and Tony de Zorzi (49) saw the visitors diffusing any possible fears of an Indian comeback. Wiaan Mulder stayed unbeaten till the very end at 35 as South Africa declared the innings at 260/5. They secured a lead of 548 runs, setting a target of 549, a number that will prove to be more than daunting for the hosts.

Much to India’s woes, they lost both their openers before the day ended. Yashasvi Jaiswal (13) and KL Rahul (6) were sent packing to the pavilion by Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer respectively. Sai Sudharsan (2*) and Kuldeep Yadav (4*) remained at the crease at stumps. On the final day, India will need 522 runs if they are to carve history.

Brief scores:

South Africa – 489 (Senuran Muthusamy – 109, Marco Jansen – 93, Kuldeep Yadav – 4/115)

India – 201 (Washington Sundar – 48, Marco Jansen – 6/48)

South Africa – 260/5 dec (Tristan Stubbs – 94, Ravindra Jadeja – 4/62)

India – 27/2 (Yashasvi Jaiswal – 13, Simon Harmer – 1/1)

Final update: India needs 522 runs to win