IND vs SA 1st Test: Kolkata Test: Bumrah's Fifer Bundles Out South Africa for 159, India Trails by 122

The first day of the Test match between India and South Africa at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata was dominated by the Indian bowlers. Due to poor light, 13 overs were lost from the scheduled 90, resulting in only 75 overs being bowled on Friday. By the close of play on Day 1, South Africa had been bowled out for a mere 159 runs in their first innings. In response, India had scored 37 runs for the loss of one wicket, still trailing South Africa by 122 runs. The stage is now set for an intriguing second day as India looks to build a substantial first-innings lead.

South Africa's Batting Collapse

South African captain Temba Bavuma won the toss and elected to bat first, a decision that quickly backfired. The Proteas lost both their openers within the first hour of play, immediately putting them under immense pressure. Indian fast bowlers maintained tight lines and lengths, not allowing the South African batsmen to settle. By the lunch break, South Africa had lost three wickets for 105 runs, with Tony de Zorzi and Wiaan Mulder at the crease. However, the wickets continued to tumble rapidly after lunch, and by. The tea break, the team had already lost eight of its batsmen.

Bumrah's Masterclass with the Ball

Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah delivered a sensational performance, dismantling the South African batting lineup with his incisive bowling, while he achieved his 16th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, showcasing his consistent brilliance. Bumrah first clean-bowled Riyan Rickelton for 23 runs and then. Had Aiden Markram, who top-scored with 31, caught by wicketkeeper Pant. In the third over of the final session, Bumrah sealed the innings by taking the wickets of Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, effectively bundling out the African team for 159 runs. His ability to extract movement and maintain relentless pressure proved too much for the visitors.

Support from Other Bowlers

While Bumrah was the star, other Indian bowlers also played crucial roles in restricting South Africa. Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav each picked up two wickets, ensuring that the pressure on the South African batsmen remained constant throughout the innings. Axar Patel also contributed with a vital wicket, trapping Corbin Bosch leg-before-wicket for three runs. The collective effort of the Indian bowling unit prevented South Africa from posting a challenging total. Apart from Markram's 31, Wiaan Mulder and Tony de Zorzi scored 24 runs each, Riyan Rickelton made 23, and Kyle Verreynne added 16, while tristan Stubbs remained unbeaten on 15.

India's Cautious Reply

After dismissing South Africa for 159, India began their first innings with caution. At the close of play, India had scored 37 runs for the loss of one wicket. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was bowled by Marco Jansen after scoring 12 runs. Following his dismissal, KL Rahul (13 runs) and Washington Sundar (6 runs) steadied the innings, ensuring no further wickets fell before stumps. Both batsmen displayed composure, navigating the challenging conditions and the fading light to see India through to the end of the day without further damage.

Session-Wise Breakdown

In the first session, South Africa reached 105 for 3 wickets by lunch. Jasprit Bumrah claimed two wickets during this period, dismissing Rickelton and Markram, while Kuldeep Yadav accounted for captain Temba Bavuma, caught by Dhruv Jurel at leg slip. The second session saw South Africa lose five more wickets, reaching 154 for 8 by tea. Axar Patel picked up the wicket of Corbin Bosch during this phase. Bumrah continued to add to his tally, with Siraj and Kuldeep also contributing. The final session was brief, as Indian bowlers quickly wrapped up. The remaining two wickets, allowing India to commence their batting innings.

Outlook for Day 2

As Day 1 concludes, India finds itself trailing South Africa by 122 runs. KL Rahul and Washington Sundar are at the crease, and a significant partnership from them on Day 2 will be crucial for India to establish a commanding position. The Indian team will aim to secure a substantial first-innings lead to gain control of the match. Conversely, the South African bowlers will be eager to pick. Up early wickets and put pressure on the Indian batting lineup. The second day's play is expected to be pivotal in determining the direction of this Test match.