News India Live, Digital Desk: Today (22 November 2025) is no less than a final for the Indian team. After that stinging 30-run defeat in Kolkata, the second Test match has started today at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. This match is not just a game, but a battle of “Do or Die” to remain in the race for the World Test Championship (WTC). Early this morning, the fans got a big shock when the news came that our regular captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of this important match due to neck spasm. But it is said, when the responsibility falls on the shoulders, a new hero emerges – today the command of the team is in the hands of our ‘Spidey’ i.e. Rishabh Pant. Drama of toss and playing 11 South African captain Temba Bavuma again won the toss and, as expected, decided to bat first. The Guwahati pitch is considered a paradise for batting on the first day, and the African batsmen are trying to take full advantage of it. With Gill out, Sai Sudharsan has got a chance. At the same time, as another surprise package, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been given the debut cap. South Africa has made a steady start as soon as the match started. Aiden Markram and Tony De Zorzi were at the crease. Bumrah’s attack: Our ‘Boom-Boom’ Bumrah raised expectations as usual and made the ball dance both ways in the opening spell. Magic of spin: Since the match is in India, all eyes are on Ashwin and Jadeja. There are chances of the spinners getting some help from the pitch around lunch. Looking at the game so far, it seems that South Africa are in no hurry, they want to score a tall score. But Rishabh Pant is continuously guiding his bowlers from behind the wicket. Their energy is worth seeing. Guwahati’s Unique Time Table One special thing you should know – Guwahati is in the North-East of India, where the sun sets early. So that there is no shortage of light, the match has been started at 9:00 am (half an hour before the normal time). The game may end a little early today if bad light plays a role. If India have to save the series (1-1 draw), then it will be very important to restrict South Africa to under 300 today. Otherwise, it won’t take long for Indore situation to happen again. Stay glued to the TV, because every session today can change the game!