Kolkata, Nov 14 (UNI) Jasprit Bumrah, with his trademark pace and precision, put India firmly on top as South Africa, electing to bat first, were reduced to 105 for 3 in 27 overs on the opening day of the first Test at Eden Gardens.
The pace spearhead’s early strikes dismantled the Proteas top-order and set the tone for a gripping contest.
Bumrah’s brilliance was evident from the start. He removed Ryan Rickelton (23) with a perfect length delivery that beat the outside edge, followed swiftly by Aiden Markram (31), caught spectacularly by Rishabh Pant at short third slip.
Kuldeep Yadav added his spin magic to dismiss Temba Bavuma (3) with a clever inside-edge caught by Dhruv Jurel at backward short-leg.
The Proteas attempted to counterattack, with Wiaan Mulder (22*) and Tony de Zorzi (15*) showing glimpses of strokeplay. Mulder’s crisp drive through extra-cover and a lofted six kept South Africa in touch, while de Zorzi’s audacious half-volley over mid-off offered the Eden Gardens spectators some excitement. Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar supported the strike bowlers with disciplined spells, keeping the run rate in check.
India’s fielding also impressed. Sharp catches and quick ground coverage ensured South Africa found it difficult to build momentum. Milestones included Mulder bringing up South Africa’s 100 with a push into the gap off Jadeja in the 24th over.
With South Africa’s middle and lower order yet to bat – Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Keshav Maharaj – India has established early control and momentum.
The Eden Gardens spectators witnessed a display of pace, spin, and fielding brilliance as India looks to capitalize on a commanding start in the first Test of the 2025 series.
