IND vs SA 2025: 3 changes India should make to win Guwahati Test

Published - 17 Nov 2025, 17:38 IST | Updated - 17 Nov 2025, 17:51 IST

India’s heavy defeat in the Kolkata Test has put the team under pressure as they head into the must-win clash in Guwahati. The loss at a tricky surface at Eden Gardens exposed issues in India’s approach. Chasing just 124, the hosts folded for 93, continuing a worrying pattern of batting failures on turning tracks. The collapse also came amid Shubman Gill’s freak neck injury, which forced him out of the remainder of the game and depleted the batting order from the start.

South Africa’s 30-run win not only gave them a rare victory in India but also placed the hosts on the brink of a second home series defeat in two years. As the series moves to Guwahati, India know they must regroup quickly and come up with a new plan. The second Test is one final chance to change their fortunes to avoid a whitewash and level the series.

India’s first Test against South Africa saw a clear picture of where their batting order needs fine-tuning, especially at the top. Washington Sundar worked hard for his runs but struggled to anchor the innings at No. 3, scoring 29 off 82 and 31 off 92 across both innings. His strike rate stayed around the mid-30s, and while he showed some fight, he could not shift gears when needed.

On the other hand, Dhruv Jurel looked far more confident despite scoring fewer runs. His 14 off 14 and 13 off 34 may not be big numbers, but his confidence could see him get a promotion. Given his technique and current form, Jurel looks a far better fit at No. 3 than Sundar. India will require someone who can absorb pressure yet keep the scoreboard ticking, and a batting swap could provide the same as they head into the Guwahati Test.