Senuran Muthusamy’s Steadfast Stand Deepens India’s Challenges in Guwahati

Expectations were high for South African spin-bowling all-rounder, Senuran Muthusamy, to play in the first Test match against India in Kolkata. Muthusamy had been the standout performer in South Africa’s previous Test series in Pakistan, taking 11 wickets and securing a match-winning 89 in the second match. Surprisingly, South Africa decided to bench Muthusamy and went with pace all-rounder Corbin Bosch. This decision paid off as Bosch contributed crucial runs and wickets, leading to a 30-run victory for South Africa.

Heading into the second Test in Guwahati, many thought South Africa would retain their winning lineup. However, they made the bold decision to swap Bosch for Muthusamy. This choice was again justified when Muthusamy delivered a remarkable performance, anchoring South Africa’s innings with his maiden Test hundred, guiding the team to a commanding position.

For a significant part of his 206-ball innings, Muthusamy’s approach was understated. He refrained from flashy shots, instead focusing on steady scoring from the crease, notably excelling in playing off the backfoot. His strategic play was evident, especially against the spinners on a Guwahati pitch that lacked the bounce and turn seen in Kolkata.

Muthusamy’s steady innings was complemented by Kyle Verreynne, forming a crucial partnership that added just 28 runs in the initial hour and 41 in the next, securing a wicketless session and establishing their team’s position.

Reflecting on the first session’s play, Muthusamy praised Verreynne’s composure under challenging conditions, emphasizing the partnership’s role in setting a solid foundation for the team’s innings.

After Verreynne’s fall, Marco Jansen entered with aggressive intent, counterattacking with powerful hitting that brought South Africa to a dominant position, despite missing out on a personal century by seven runs. Muthusamy commended Jansen’s remarkable shot-making, noting its positive influence.

In their 97-run stand, Jansen’s expansive play encouraged Muthusamy to diversify his batting, mixing in slogs and sweeps, further establishing South Africa’s superiority.

Muthusamy’s journey to this Test success has been unique. Despite debuting in First-Class cricket in 2013, he had to wait till 2019 for his Test debut in India, after which he found himself out of the national team for a while. His consistent performances in red-ball cricket have reinstated him, especially for subcontinent tours, combining his batting resilience with his left-arm spin.

The challenges of being a spinning all-rounder in South African conditions were acknowledged by Muthusamy, but he expressed eagerness for opportunities in the subcontinent, where he has now capitalized on his chance, securing his first Test hundred through patient and strategic batting.

Published on November 23, 2025