South Africa Set World Record With 408-Run Win Over India in Guwahati

South Africa registered a historic 408-run victory against India in the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, becoming the first team ever to defeat India by a margin exceeding 400 runs. The emphatic result sealed a 2–0 series sweep and marked one of the most decisive outcomes in Test cricket in recent years.

Record-Breaking Margin and Series Outcome

Chasing a formidable 549-run target, India collapsed for 140 on the final day. The result handed India their largest defeat by runs in Test history, surpassing Australia’s previous 342-run record win in Nagpur. The result also marked India’s second consecutive home series whitewash within a year, underlining a period of steep decline in their otherwise dominant home record.

India’s Rare Home Struggles

Before this downturn, India had suffered only two home series defeats between 2000 and their loss to New Zealand last year. Their back-to-back defeats now mirror setbacks last seen in 1883 and 1984–85. The latest sweep adds to earlier 0–2 and 0–3 home losses against South Africa in 2000 and New Zealand last year.

South Africa’s Dominance Under Bavuma

The victory is South Africa’s second-largest in Test cricket, behind their 492-run triumph over Australia in 2018. Under Temba Bavuma’s leadership, the side has showcased remarkable consistency, winning 11 of their last 12 Tests without a single defeat. Their strong run in Asia continues as they remain unbeaten across their last three subcontinental tours.

Exam Oriented Facts

• South Africa defeated India by a record 408-run margin in Guwahati.
• India were dismissed for 140 while chasing 549 runs.
• This was India’s second consecutive home series whitewash.
• South Africa have won 11 of their last 12 Tests under Temba Bavuma.

Implications for the World Test Championship Cycle

The 2–0 defeat pushes India further down the WTC 2025–27 standings, slipping below Pakistan, while Australia move to the top. For South Africa, the milestone victory reinforces their position as major contenders as attention now shifts to upcoming fixtures in the championship cycle.