South Africa Thrashes India by 408 Runs to Sweep Test Series 2-0 in Historic Victory

South Africa delivered a crushing blow to India in the second Test at Guwahati’s Barsapara Cricket Stadium, winning by a staggering 408 runs on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, to complete a 2-0 series sweep. This marks the Proteas’ first Test series triumph on Indian soil in 25 years, since their 2000 success under Hansie Cronje, and condemns the hosts to their biggest home defeat by runs in history. Off-spinner Simon Harmer starred with 6-37 in the second innings, dismantling India’s batting lineup as they were bundled out for 140 while chasing an improbable 549. The victory not only boosts South Africa’s standing in the World Test Championship but also highlights their dominance in spin-friendly conditions against a formidable opponent.

The match concluded on Day 5, with South Africa enforcing a follow-on after a commanding first innings lead. Marco Jansen, named Player of the Match for his 6-48 in India’s first innings and a quickfire 93 with the bat, sealed the deal with a stunning one-handed catch to dismiss Mohammed Siraj. “Winning a Test match and series in India is very special,” Jansen said, praising the team’s collective effort. For India, this fifth loss in seven home Tests—including a 3-0 whitewash by New Zealand last year—raises serious questions about their batting fragility and home invincibility. Captain Rishabh Pant reflected: “As a batting unit, you need to capitalise on certain moments. As a team, we didn’t do that.”

Harmer’s Masterclass: Six Wickets Seal the Deal

Simon Harmer, the 36-year-old off-spinner, was the architect of India’s downfall in the second innings. Returning figures of 6-37, Harmer exploited the batting-friendly track to perfection, claiming key wickets including Ravindra Jadeja (54) and Rishabh Pant (13). His spell turned the game decisively, as India slumped from a promising position to a dismal total.

Harmer’s career, marked by a decade-long evolution, has seen him excel in domestic cricket for Essex in England, where he has taken over 900 first-class wickets. Making a Test comeback after a long hiatus, his performance in Guwahati—following a solid showing in the first Test—proves his value in subcontinental conditions. “Harmer demonstrated his decade-long evolution,” noted cricket analysts, praising his control and variations.

Jansen’s All-Round Brilliance and Team Effort

Marco Jansen’s contributions were pivotal throughout the series. In the second Test, his 6-48 in India’s first innings of 201 set the tone, while his aggressive 93 in South Africa’s second innings declaration of 260-5 helped set the massive target. Jansen’s one-handed catch to end the match epitomised the Proteas’ fielding prowess.

Captain Aiden Markram lauded the bowling attack, including Keshav Maharaj (who took the final wicket) and Kagiso Rabada. “Our bowlers were outstanding, and the batters set it up perfectly,” Markram said. South Africa’s first innings of 489, led by Senuran Muthusamy’s maiden century (109) and Jansen’s knock, gave them a 288-run lead that proved insurmountable.

India’s Struggles: Biggest Home Defeat and Series Whitewash

India’s batting woes continued from the first Test in Kolkata, where they lost inside three days. Chasing 549, they managed only 140, with Jadeja’s 54 the highest score in a lineup that crumbled under pressure. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan showed brief resistance, but Harmer’s spell triggered a collapse.

This defeat is India’s largest by runs at home, surpassing previous lows, and marks their fifth loss in seven home Tests. “Whether you’re playing at home or away, cricket demands determination and extra effort,” Pant admitted, acknowledging failures to capitalise on key moments.

The series loss is India’s first home whitewash since 2012 against England, raising alarms ahead of future tours. Analysts point to inconsistent batting and spin vulnerabilities as core issues.

Series Context: South Africa’s Rare Triumph in India

South Africa’s 2-0 sweep is only their second Test series win in India, the first in 2000. The Proteas elected to bat in both Tests, capitalising on strong starts and spin bowling. In Kolkata, they won by an innings and 32 runs, setting the tone.

This victory boosts South Africa’s World Test Championship (WTC) standings, making them contenders for the 2025-27 cycle final. For India, it drops them further, prompting calls for introspection.

🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 119 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Jacob Zuma Welcomes TonyYengeni to MK Party as Second Deputy President in Major Leadership Shake-Up🔴

Download Here:

Direct PDF File Here:

https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf

Read all our publications on magzter:

https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues

Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content,  Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.

We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.

Advertisement:

To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za

For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za

Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za

General Info: info@centralnews.co.za

Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za

Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487

Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za

Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube