Did India wait too long to declare in Kolkata?

Question

India have posted a massive 643 (declared) in their first innings against South Africa in the Kolkata Test. But with just two days left to play, should the home side have declared earlier to improve their chances of a result in the match? They need to win here to retain the No. 1 ranking.

Answer 1

South Africa just need to remain at the crease to secure the series victory (they lead 1-0) and the No. 1 Test ranking, so despite India’s impressive batting performance, they still have the job ahead of them in the field. There was a very good reason why when bad light halted play on day three, the Proteas batsmen were quick to head back to the pavilion, while India remained on the field in the hope of squeezing a few more overs out of the day, and with it maybe a wicket or two.