The second match of the 2-Test series between India and South Africa is currently underway at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, while on the second day of this crucial encounter, Indian team captain Rishabh Pant was visibly agitated with his own bowler, Kuldeep Yadav, on the field. The incident occurred when Kuldeep Yadav was taking an undue amount of time to bowl, slowing down. The pace of play and putting the Indian team at risk of a penalty for a slow over-rate.
Captain Pant's Frustration and the Slow Over-Rate Issue
In the Guwahati Test match, Indian captain Rishabh Pant had already. Received two warnings from the on-field umpire for a slow over-rate. According to cricket regulations, if the same mistake is repeated for a third time, the Indian team could face a 5-run penalty, which can be quite costly in a long format like Test cricket. To avoid this potential penalty and maintain the pace of the game, Captain Rishabh Pant reprimanded Kuldeep Yadav. On the second day of play, when Kuldeep Yadav came to bowl, he took a moment before starting his over, while during this delay, Rishabh Pant, from behind the stumps, was heard scolding him, saying, "There's a 30-second timer, are you playing at home? Bowl quickly, Kuldeep, we've already received two warnings. We don't need a whole over, you've made a joke of Test cricket, while " Pant's words clearly reflected his frustration.
New Rules in Test Cricket and Their Implications
This incident also highlights a recently implemented rule in Test cricket. It's now mandatory for the next over to commence. Within 30 seconds of the previous over ending in Test matches. This rule has been introduced to maintain the pace of the game and prevent unnecessary delays, while teams are often penalized for slow over-rates with fines on match fees or deduction of points in the league table, but a 5-run penalty can directly impact the outcome of the match. Captain Pant's concern was precisely that Kuldeep's delay shouldn't cause an unnecessary disadvantage to the team.
Current State of the Guwahati Test
By lunchtime on the second day of this encounter, the South African team had Notably strengthened its position, while the Indian bowlers have struggled considerably to take wickets in this match so far. At the end of the second session on Day 2, South Africa had scored 428 runs. For the loss of 7 wickets, placing them in a very strong position in this contest. Indian bowlers have found it challenging to break partnerships and have not been successful in containing the South African batsmen.
Muthusamy's Maiden Test Century
When play concluded on the first day of the Guwahati Test match, the South African team had posted 247 runs for the loss of 6 wickets, while following this, the second day witnessed an outstanding batting performance from Senuran Muthusamy. He held one end firmly and gave no chances to the Indian bowlers, while just before the end of the second session, Muthusamy successfully scored his maiden Test century, a significant milestone in his career. His century has propelled the South African team into a very strong position in this match, increasing the pressure on the Indian team. India will now have to chase this formidable total and deliver an exceptional performance to make a comeback in the match.