In a gripping display of cricket, South Africa claimed three crucial wickets during the first session on the second day of the opening test against India at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens. The hosts, struggling at 138-4, faced further setbacks as captain Shubman Gill retired hurt due to a neck injury. India still trails by 21 runs after South Africa was dismissed for 159 in their first innings, thanks to Jasprit Bumrah’s impressive 5-27 spell on Day 1. Ravindra Jadeja (11 not out) and Dhruv Jurel (5) held the crease at lunch, but India’s batting woes deepened. K.L. Rahul and Washington Sundar initially steadied the innings, adding 38 runs in 14 overs, but South Africa’s bowlers struck back after the drinks break. Sundar fell to Simon Harmer, caught at slip after scoring 29, while Rahul was dismissed by Keshav Maharaj for 39. Rishabh Pant’s aggressive 27 off 24 balls provided a brief spark, but India’s struggles on a challenging pitch continue. South Africa, seeking their first test win in India in 15 years, will aim to capitalize on their momentum. The second test begins on November 22 in Guwahati, marking the first men’s test at the Barsapara Stadium.
South Africa hits back on second day of 1st test against India as hosts are 138-4 at lunch
