India seized control on Day 2 of the 1st Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens, reducing the visitors to 93/7 in their second innings and trailing by just 63 runs. Ravindra Jadeja’s four-wicket spell and Jasprit Bumrah’s earlier five-for have put India on the brink of victory.
Bowling Dominance Defines the Day
- Ravindra Jadeja turned the tide in the final session, claiming 4 wickets for 29 runs in a devastating spell that dismantled South Africa’s top and middle order.
- Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah had set the tone with a 5-wicket haul (5/27) on Day 1, becoming the first Indian pacer since Ishant Sharma (2019) to take five wickets on Day 1 of a home Test.
- South Africa’s second innings crumbled to 93/7 in 35 overs, with only Temba Bavuma (29*) showing resistance.
India’s First Innings: Grit Over Glamour
- India responded to South Africa’s 159 with 189 all out, securing a slender 30-run lead.
- KL Rahul top-scored with a gritty 39 off 119 balls, while Rishabh Pant and Jadeja chipped in with 27 each.
- South African bowlers Simon Harmer (4/30) and Marco Jansen (3/35) kept India in check on a pitch that deteriorated rapidly.
Pitch Conditions: A Surprise Twist
- The Eden Gardens surface, expected to be batting-friendly for two days, turned treacherous by Day 2.
- Commentators noted the pitch was not watered before the match, contributing to unpredictable bounce and turn.
- With 15 wickets falling on Day 2 alone, the match has become a low-scoring thriller reminiscent of Durban 2010-11.
Injury Update
- India captain Shubman Gill retired hurt due to a neck spasm after facing just three balls. He did not return to bat or field.
Brief Scores
| Team | Innings 1 | Innings 2 | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Africa | 159 all out | 93/7 | Bavuma 29*, Harmer 4/30 |
| India | 189 all out | — | Rahul 39, Jadeja 4/29 |
India now stands on the cusp of victory with three days remaining. If the pitch continues to assist bowlers, a result could come as early as Day 3.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Freedom Trophy unfolds.