South Africa Crush India by 408 Runs to Seal Historic 2–0 Series Sweep

South Africa delivered a commanding performance in Guwahati to complete a 2–0 series sweep, beating India by a massive 408 runs — the heaviest defeat India have ever suffered by runs in Test cricket history.

The Proteas, who became World Test Champions in June, outplayed the hosts across five days, securing just their second ever Test series win in India, and their first since 2000.
Their margin of victory surpassed India’s previous worst loss — a 342-run defeat to Australia in 2004.

📉 India’s Struggle Continues

The defeat marks India’s second home series loss in two years, following a 3–0 whitewash by New Zealand. Before this period, India had gone 12 years without losing a Test series at home, highlighting a major downturn in form.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir pointed to inexperience as a key factor, noting that several top-order batters have played fewer than 15 Tests.
“They’re learning on the job. Test cricket is never easy,” he stated. “This is transition — and transition needs time.”

🏏 Match Summary

South Africa declared at 260-5 on day four, setting India a daunting target of 549. India were bundled out for 140 in their final innings, with Ravindra Jadeja battling alone for 54.

Spinner Simon Harmer claimed 6 wickets, while Aiden Markram set a new record with nine catches, contributing to India’s collapse.

“It’s a great feeling,” Markram said. “You have to believe you can challenge the best in their own conditions — and we proved that.”

🏆 South Africa’s Dominance Under Bavuma

Under captain Temba Bavuma, South Africa have now won 11 of their last 12 Tests. Their strong series victory keeps them second in the World Test Championship standings, while India drop to fifth.

🔥 Criticism Mounts on India’s Structure & Selection

Former cricketers and analysts questioned India’s tactics and team balance. Commentator Harsha Bhogle noted that India’s once-intimidating home aura appears to be fading, while Venkatesh Prasad criticised “poor tactics and poor body language” within the squad.

Since taking charge in July 2024, Gambhir’s tenure includes 10 Test losses, with victories only against Bangladesh and West Indies — teams placed eighth and ninth in Test rankings.

The pressure on management grows as India prepare for their next Test assignment: a tour to Sri Lanka in August, followed by co-hosting the T20 World Cup with Sri Lanka in February.