Ravindra Jadeja was the star of Day 2 of India’s Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Bowling from the Pavilion End, the all‑rounder ripped four wickets for 29 runs, leaving the South African batting lineup at 93 for 7 in just 35 overs. India has a 63‑run advantage after its first innings, but the match still feels tight with 16 wickets fallen on the second day.
India had bowled South Africa out for 159 in their first innings, taking a 30‑run cushion. South Africa opened their second innings with a shaky start and collapsed under pressure from the spin and a tricky pitch. Shubman Gill, who retired hurt after a neck spasm, did not return to the field, allowing India to maintain control.
The wicket‑tough pitch at Eden Gardens offers variable bounce and sharp turn. Even chasing a target of 125 would require South Africa to double their current lead—a daunting task on such uneven track.
In the morning, the Indians were dismissed for 189 with four wickets from off‑spinner Simon Harmer for 30 and Marco Jansen taking three for 35. India’s top scorer was KL Rahul, who reached 39 runs. The most significant partnership was a 57‑run stand between Rahul and Washington Sundar.
During India’s innings, Ravindra Jadeja’s left‑arm spin proved lethal. He picked up wickets of Rahul, Jurel, and Kuldeep Yadav among others. The Indian batting fell apart, especially in the final overs, as South Africa’s bowlers exploited the pitch.
South Africa’s key players missed critical moments. Gill left the field after his injury, while Jurel and other middle‑order batsmen struggled to find footing on the turny surface. Captain Rishabh Pant, fresh from a foot injury, made his mark with a six over Corbin Bosch but turned back to a front‑court catch that damaged his innings.
Jadeja’s bowling from the new ball was especially effective against South Africa’s top order, trapping several batsmen with sharp, turning deliveries. His breakthroughs kept the pressure on the South African side, forcing their bowlers into difficult positions.
By end of Day 2, India led by 63 runs: India 189 all out; South Africa 93/7. The scorecard highlights are:
- India: 189, 62.2 overs (Rahul 39, Sundar 29)
- South Africa 1st innings: 159 (Bavuma 29*, Jansen 13)
- South Africa 2nd innings: 93/7 (Jadeja 4-29, Yadav 2-12)
The pitch remains a significant factor as both teams battle for the remaining wickets on tip‑to‑cross grounds. The third day will be crucial to decide whether either side can take the lead or the match will end in a dramatic finish.
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