In a dramatic turn of events, South Africa clinched their first Test victory on Indian soil since 2010, defeating the hosts by 30 runs in a low-scoring thriller at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens. The match, which concluded within three days, saw the Proteas overcome a first-innings deficit to secure a memorable win. South Africa, fresh from their World Test Championship triumph at Lord’s earlier in the summer, showcased resilience and tactical brilliance to outplay India in challenging conditions. Veteran spinner Simon Harmer was the standout performer, claiming eight wickets across both innings (4-30 and 4-21) to dismantle India’s batting lineup. India, chasing a modest target of 124, collapsed to 93 all out in just 35 overs, with Harmer and Keshav Maharaj (2-37) wreaking havoc on the middle order. South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma played a pivotal role, scoring an unbeaten 55 in the second innings to steer his team to a competitive total of 153. India’s woes were compounded by the absence of captain Shubman Gill, who retired hurt on day two due to a neck injury and was ruled out of the remainder of the match. The second and final Test of the series is scheduled to begin in Guwahati on November 22, where India will look to bounce back from this unexpected defeat.