Confident Proteas should be unfazed as India plot Guwahati ‘minefield’

With the Proteas riding high after their historic victory in the first Test against India at Eden Gardens last week, they will fancy their chances of sealing the series — regardless of the conditions India may throw at them in Guwahati.

Proteas Test teams of the past were known for being slow starters, often beginning series on the back foot and relying on their resilience-based identity to claw their way back. This current crop appears to be on a different trajectory after winning the opening Test in Kolkata. They seem intent on throwing the first punch rather than absorbing it.

At the same time, this new group continues to embody the grit of previous generations. The first Test showed they can withstand the swings and setbacks that come with long-format cricket and still come out on top. With that early blow landed, confidence is flowing, and the Proteas will be oozing belief heading into the second and final Test in Guwahati.

India, meanwhile, are under significant pressure after being thumped in front of nearly 44,000 fans at Eden Gardens. That pressure is heightened by the prospect of another home series whitewash, after being beaten 0–3 by New Zealand a year ago.

Their familiar tactic of preparing turning ‘minefields’ has so far been ineffective, with the Proteas proving they are adaptable enough to handle spin-friendly conditions and still secure a win.

The ACA Stadium in Guwahati will host its maiden Test this week, making the venue uncharted territory for the visitors. It remains to be seen whether India coach Gautam Gambhir will push for another spin-heavy wicket or whether the hosts will opt for a better-balanced surface with something in it for both batters and bowlers.

Whatever the pitch offers, the Proteas should be ready, particularly with a 1–0 lead already in the bank.

The side is led by Temba Bavuma, who is enjoying a peak period in his career, earning praise and recognition across the cricket world — including from former India captain Anil Kumble. Bavuma is currently ranked No 5 in the ICC Test batting rankings, behind Steve Smith, Joe Root, Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell.

That standing only strengthens South Africa’s chances in Guwahati, because a confident leader breeds a confident team. What the Proteas will be hoping for, though, is the return of Kagiso Rabada for what is arguably their biggest Test since the World Test Championship final at Lord’s this past winter.

The fast bowler missed the first Test with a rib injury, and his availability remains uncertain as he did not train with the team on Thursday.