New Delhi, 14 November (Udaipur Kiran). India tightened its grip on the first Test at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens as South Africa were bowled out for just 159 runs in their first innings. The visitors managed to survive only 55 overs, collapsing rapidly after a promising start.
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah delivered a sensational spell, taking a five-wicket haul. He finished with 5/27 in 14 overs, triggering South Africa’s batting collapse and putting India in a strong position early in the match. At tea, South Africa were struggling at 154/8.
Earlier, South African captain Temba Bavuma won the toss and opted to bat first. The opening pair of Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton gave the team a solid start, adding 57 runs for the first wicket. However, once the partnership was broken, the innings fell apart quickly as Indian bowlers took control across the second and third sessions.
The biggest surprise of the day came from India’s team selection. Stand-in captain Shubman Gill included all four spinners—Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja. Sai Sudharsan was left out, while Rishabh Pant made his return to the playing XI. Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel also found a place in the line-up.
With South Africa dismissed cheaply, India will look to build a strong first-innings total and seize complete command of the match.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
