Highest first-innings leads without enforcing a follow-on in India (Tests)
What's the story
After acing the series opener, South Africa dominated India in the 2nd Test at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. The Proteas racked up a mammoth 489 before bowling India out for 201. However, they refrained from enforcing the follow-on and batter in the third day's final hour. According to Cricbuzz, 288 is the second-highest first-innings lead sans a follow-on in Tests in India.
#1
India: 299 vs Bangladesh, Hyderabad, 2017
In the 2017 Hyderabad Test, India claimed a 299-run lead against Bangladesh after the first innings. The hosts racked up 687/6d, riding on an incredible double-century from Virat Kohli. Bangladesh then responded with 388, facing a 299-run deficit. However, India chose to play the second innings. They declared on 159/4d and then bowled Bangladesh, who were chasing 459, out for 250.
#2
South Africa: 288 vs India, Guwahati, 2025
As mentioned, SA secured a 288-run lead after posting 489 against India in Guwahati. At 201/5, the Proteas were staring at a collapse, but Senuran Muthusamy's incredible century powered them. Marco Jansen also contributed with a 93-run knock, bolstering the lower order. India, who were expected to put up a better show, once again succumbed to SA bowlers. Only Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a half-century.