Bavuma Bats First on Green-Tinged Guwahati Pitch; India Make Two Changes

India arrive in Guwahati wounded but dangerous. After being stung in Kolkata, a brand-new Test venue now becomes the stage for a potential backlash. With the series on the line and World Test Championship points slipping away, this contest has turned into a true examination of character for the hosts.

India have been forced into a major reshuffle even before the first ball. A neck injury to Shubman Gill has ruled him out, handing Rishabh Pant the captaincy at one of the most high-voltage moments of the series. Known for his fearless batting, Pant is expected to lead with the same instinct — bold fields, brave calls, and no half measures.

Around him, India’s young batting core faces a defining moment. The team needs solid starts at the top, stability in the middle, and intent throughout the order as they look to carve out an identity beyond the shadows of past stalwarts.

With the ball, drifting is not an option. The Indian quicks will need to set the tone early, while the spinners are expected to come into play as soon as the pitch shows signs of grip. South Africa, chasing a historic clean sweep on Indian soil, know that Guwahati offers a different challenge — and India, a perfect chance to script a turnaround from hurt to hostility and from pressure to payback.

A packed Barsapara crowd is on hand as the city hosts its first-ever Test, and India will be desperate to convert Kolkata’s bruising setback into a roaring statement.

Toss Update

South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first.

Temba Bavuma (South Africa Captain):
“We’ll have a bat first. Like you said, Ravi, it’s about starting fresh and putting on a strong show over the next few days. The pitch looks much better than in Kolkata — more consistent grass coverage, no cracks, and should play well for a couple of days before spin comes in later. Our approach remains the same — bat big in the first innings and control the game. Really special to be part of this occasion as Guwahati hosts its first-ever Test. One change — Senuran Muthusamy comes in for Corbin Bosch.”

Rishabh Pant (India Captain):
“Definitely a proud moment — you dream of leading your country, and I’m grateful to the BCCI for this opportunity. Wearing the captain’s blazer feels surreal. The focus is on improving as a team, staying together, and fighting every moment. The surface looks good for batting, but bowling first isn’t a bad call. Shubman is recovering well but wasn’t fit enough. Two changes for us — Nitish Kumar Reddy comes in for Shubman, and Sai Sudharsan replaces Axar Patel.”

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