India’s first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens turned from a rosy prospect into a tense early setback.
By lunch on day three, India’s opening pair—Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul—were dismissed, leaving the team 10/2 after just seven overs.
How the wickets fell
- Marco Jansen sharpened the delivery; he got both Jaiswal and Rahul to edge to keeper Kyle Verreynne, snatching two wickets in a burst.
- With only Washington Sundar (not out, 5) and Dhruv Jurel (not out, 4) remaining, India needed to survive a nervy 4½‑over lunch session.
South Africa’s drive
South Africa seized control by adding 60 crucial runs in their first innings.
Captaining the side, Temba Bavuma stayed unbeaten on 55, providing a solid foundation. His knock helped stretch the lead to 123 on an up‑and‑down pitch, setting India a modest target of 124 for the chase.
Key moments in the chase
- The Indian duo was set back when Jansen beat Rahul with a bouncy ball, leading to a quick wicket.
- Despite the early loss, Sundar and Jurel endured the pressure and managed to take the lunch break safely.
What this means for India
India now faces a challenging task: chase 124 on a tricky wicket. They must remain calm, play steady shots, and hit boundaries to avoid slipping into the dreaded list of low targets that never get completed.
If India pulls off the chase, it would set a new record for the highest successful chase in a Test at Eden Gardens.
South Africa’s end
- Bavuma guided the sideline with his 55, giving the bowlers a respectable total.
- Siraj delivered a decisive spell, taking two wickets, including a crucial lbw to Keshav Maharaj.
- South Africa’s bowlers, led by Bumrah and Siraj, wrapped up the final three wickets to finish at 153.
Quick recap
- South Africa: 159 / 153 (57 overs) – Bavuma 55*, Bosch 25
- India: 189 / 10/2 in 7 overs – Sundar 5, Jurel 4
India leads by 114 runs.
India now focuses on a steady, disciplined chase, while South Africa lingers with a confident prospect of defense.
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