India bowled on a challenging pitch on Day 1 of second Test against South Africa in Guwahati, with the surface offering little help for the bowlers. Kuldeep Yadav kept the host nation in the game with three timely wickets. South Africa’s batters settled early on a flat track, but Kuldeep broke partnerships, and was India’s most impressive bowler.

After stumps on Day 1, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate spoke about Kuldeep Yadav’s crucial role on a Guwahati track. He referred to Kuldeep as India’s X-factor, noting how valuable his breakthroughs were in tough conditions.

“To pick up three wickets on that kind of track on Day 1 is impressive. Kuldeep’s strike rate is exceptional, and he always hunts for wickets, which is why we back him. I thought the group bowled nicely, but the overspin he produces, along with the red soil and a quicker surface, made him a bit more effective,” ten Doeschate said.

“Later in the match, the finger spinners will have a bigger role. His three wickets were a big bonus and gave us a solid grip on the game,” ten Doeschate added.

The value of Kuldeep’s spell became clear from the wickets he collected. He struck early to end Ryan Rickelton’s innings on 35, cutting short a solid start from the visitors. In the afternoon, he removed Tristan Stubbs for 49, denying him a half-century and preventing South Africa from pushing ahead. His last breakthrough came when he dismissed Wiaan Mulder for 13, a wicket that strengthened India’s position late in the day.

South Africa closed Day 1 on 247 for 6, a score that would have been far bigger without Kuldeep’s breakthroughs. Several visiting batters got starts, but they failed to score big because India struck at key moments.

As the match heads to Day 2, the contest remains finely poised. Kuldeep is set to play another important role as India look to finish the South African innings quickly and secure a first-innings lead on a pitch that should continue to favour the batters.