Guwahati: Stand–in India captain Rishabh Pant has issued a public apology after India suffered a massive 408–run defeat to South Africa in the second Test at the Barsapara Stadium, marking India’s heaviest defeat in a home Test series and sealing a historic series win for the visitors.
Pant, who led the side in the absence of regular captain Shubman Gill, scored just 7 and 13 in India’s two innings and admitted that both he and the team failed to rise to the occasion. South Africa clinched their first Test series win on Indian soil in 25 years, while India registered their fifth loss in their last seven home Tests—an unwanted statistic last seen 66 years ago.
Pant accepts responsibility for poor show
Pant took to Instagram a day after the defeat to express his disappointment and acknowledge the team’s shortcomings. In a heartfelt post, he stressed that India were thoroughly outplayed across both Tests and did not shy away from accepting personal responsibility.
“There is no shying away from the fact that we didn’t play good enough cricket over the last two weeks,” Pant wrote, adding that representing India is “the greatest honour” and that the team would “regroup, refocus and reset”.
Pant’s twin failures with the bat were among the major reasons behind India’s inability to put up competitive totals of 201 and 140 all out. While the pitch offered no significant challenge, the Indian batting unit faltered collectively. In contrast, South Africa’s Senuran Muthusamy, Marco Jansen and Tristan Stubbs showed grit and discipline, underlining the gulf in temperament over the two Tests.
South Africa dominate India on historic tour
This Test series will be remembered as one of South Africa’s most commanding performances in India. The visitors adapted brilliantly to Indian conditions, displayed sharp discipline with the ball, and capitalised on every opportunity with the bat.
India’s bowling unit produced occasional sparks but lacked consistency, while the batting order—usually formidable at home—crumbled twice in Guwahati. With key players missing, India struggled to find stability, and the Proteas seized control in all departments.
Since their breakthrough series win in 1999–2000, South Africa had repeatedly challenged India at home but never crossed the final hurdle—until now. This victory will add significant momentum to their Test cricket campaign ahead of next year’s World Test Championship cycle.
India’s growing concerns in red-ball cricket
The loss raises serious concerns about India’s recent form in Test cricket, especially at home. Over the past year, India have failed to defend their fortress, losing five of seven home Tests—a pattern last witnessed between 1958–59.
The absence of senior players such as Shubman Gill added to India’s challenges, but the lack of fight on relatively benign batting pitches has led to widespread criticism. The team’s middle order, in particular, has struggled to cope with sustained pressure.
Pant, known for his aggressive batting style and past heroics, could not replicate his success this time. However, the team management continues to back him as a long-term leader in the making.
Pant promises a stronger comeback
Despite the heavy defeat, Pant’s message emphasised resilience and optimism. He thanked fans for their unwavering support and promised that the team would learn from the setback.
“Sorry we couldn’t live up to expectations this time, but sport teaches you to learn, adapt and grow,” he said. “We will work hard, regroup, refocus and reset to come back stronger and better as a team and as individuals.”
This gesture has been widely appreciated by fans online, who view Pant’s accountability and leadership as positives amid a disappointing series.
What’s next for India?
India will now shift focus to the three–match ODI series against South Africa starting on 30 November. KL Rahul will lead the team, with stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returning to the squad. Pant, too, will feature in the ODI series and will be keen to bounce back with strong performances.
With a packed cricketing calendar ahead, including preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup and next year’s Test assignments, India will aim to address their recent inconsistencies and rebuild momentum.