NewKerala.com

Stubbs' Century Heartbreak: Why South Africa's Late Declaration Paid Off

Tristan Stubbs came agonizingly close to his maiden Test century, falling just six runs short. The young batter admitted feeling slightly disappointed but prioritized the team's dominant position. South Africa's declaration was strategically timed based on available playing time rather than overs remaining. With India needing 522 runs on the final day, Stubbs remains confident about South Africa's chances to secure a series victory.

Key Points: Stubbs Explains SA Declaration Timing After 94-Run Knock

  • Stubbs fell six runs short of century prompting immediate declaration
  • Declaration timing based on available time rather than overs remaining
  • South Africa set massive 549-run target for India to chase
  • Stubbs defended sweep shot as necessary on turning pitch conditions
2 min read

2nd Test: Wasn't an overs thing, more about the time, says Stubbs on SA's late declaration

South Africa's Tristan Stubbs reflects on missing his century by 6 runs and explains the strategic timing behind Temba Bavuma's declaration in 2nd Test.

"Little bit, but they're two down now, so we'll take that. - Tristan Stubbs"

Guwahati, Nov 25

South Africa’s standout performer Tristan Stubbs reflected on his crucial knock after narrowly missing out on a century on Day 4 of the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. The young batter, who top-scored with a composed 94, admitted he felt “a little bit” disappointed at falling short of the three-figure mark, but remained satisfied with the team’s commanding position.

With South Africa firmly in control, many anticipated an early declaration on the fourth day. Instead, the visitors extended their innings beyond a 500-run lead to give Stubbs time to reach his milestone. The 25-year-old looked set for a memorable hundred, but was dismissed six runs short, prompting skipper Temba Bavuma to immediately declare the innings at 260/5, setting India a daunting 549-run target.

Asked after stumps by the presenters whether the near-miss frustrated him, Stubbs responded, “Little bit, but they're two down now, so we'll take that.”

Explaining the timing of the declaration, Stubbs clarified that it was dictated by conditions rather than overs remaining. “(The declaration) Wasn't an overs thing, it was more about the time. We had 40 minutes after lunch. Thought I'll give it (the hundred) a go and then when Jadeja came on, that was the last over, so I thought two hits is my best shot,” he added.

Reflecting on the sweep shot that led to his dismissal, Stubbs said it was the right option on a surface offering turn and variable bounce. “If you were just looking to defend, I thought you'll be a sitting duck. That (sweep) was more of a defensive shot to get off strike. Some of those shots - you had to play them. There's some nice footholes there. Harmy showed it - getting KL out. If we get the ball in the right areas, there's enough in this wicket,” Stubbs said.

As the match heads into the final day, India require 522 runs to pull off an improbable chase, while South Africa need eight wickets to seal a 2-0 series victory.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Honestly, I think SA delayed declaration too much. Should have declared earlier and given more time to bowl India out. Now weather might play spoilsport on final day! 🌧️
A
Arjun K
Stubbs played really well but our spinners will make the difference tomorrow. Jadeja and Ashwin on day 5 pitch - that's our strength! 🇮🇳 #TeamIndia
S
Sarah B
Watching from Australia - what an exciting Test match! Stubbs' approach to the sweep shot shows how modern batsmen are adapting to spin. Test cricket at its best! 🏏
K
Karthik V
Respect to Bavuma for immediately declaring after Stubbs got out. No selfishness, pure team game. That's why I love test cricket! Though 549 is too much, hoping for a miracle from our boys tomorrow 🤞
M
Michael C
Stubbs' analysis of the pitch conditions is spot on. The variable bounce and footmarks will be crucial on final day. Smart cricket mind for a young player!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50