South Africa are set to face India in the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, starting on Saturday, November 22.
The Proteas have a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. They won the first Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, by 30 runs on a rank turner.
Let’s look at the probable playing XI of South Africa for the second Test against India:
Top Order: Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder

Ryan Rickelton registered scores of 23 and 11 in the first Test. He played aggressively in the first innings, hitting four boundaries. The southpaw could continue with that approach in Guwahati. Aiden Markram, the Player of the Match in the World Test Championship final, played well in the first innings, scoring 31. He will hold the key at the top of the order with his years of experience. Wiaan Mulder will have to step up, as he has not done much at No. 3 apart from the 367* he scored against Zimbabwe.
Middle Order: Temba Bavuma (C), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs

Temba Bavuma will be high on confidence after scoring a match-winning half-century in South Africa’s second innings in the first Test in tough batting conditions. Tony de Zorzi scored 24 and 2 at Eden Gardens and will look to bounce back strongly. Meanwhile, Tristan Stubbs will have to come out with better plans for his blockathon strategy in the first Test might not be of any good in Guwahati.
Lower Middle Order: Kyle Verreynne (WK), Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch/Lungi Ngidi

Kyle Verreynne is a decent player of spin, and his role down the order is going to be important. Marco Jansen is vital cog in the South African team because of his all-round skills. Meanwhile, there is a possibility of Lungi Ngidi coming into the side in place of Corbin Bosch if South Africa want to bolster their bowling department.
Bowlers: Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj

Simon Harmer was the best bowler on show in the first Test. He was the Player of the Match after picking up eight wickets across the two innings. Meanwhile, Keshav Maharaj was not as potent as he would have wanted to be. However, he will also be a bowler to watch out for because of his craftiness and experience.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
Which Players Could Decide the Outcome of DC vs GG – 5th Match, International League T20 2025
OTD: Shikhar Dhawan was born in 1985
What SA’s Playing XI Could Look Like Against IND in the 3rd ODI

