ISLAMABAD: South Africa defeated India by 30 runs in the first Test in Kolkata on Sunday, securing their first Test victory on Indian soil in 15 years.
The win also marked South Africa’s 10th triumph in 11 Tests under captain Temba Bavuma, who played a decisive role with an unbeaten 55 in the second innings on a sharply deteriorating Eden Gardens pitch. His effort helped set India a target of 124, which proved far more challenging than it appeared.
India were bundled out for 93, undone by the sustained pressure of Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj. Harmer delivered a superb spell of 4-21, dismantling the middle and lower order, while Maharaj’s two wickets included a crucial breakthrough that swung the momentum firmly toward the visitors.
Marco Jansen sparked India’s collapse early, removing Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul within the first three overs. Despite Washington Sundar’s 31 and Axar Patel’s quick 26, India never recovered from the early blows. With Shubman Gill absent hurt, the hosts effectively batted a man short.
Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah had given India hope with a brilliant 5-27 in South Africa’s first innings, restricting the visitors to 159. India responded with 189, led by KL Rahul’s 39, on a surface that offered turn, uneven bounce and constant challenges for batters.
Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav shared six wickets in South Africa’s second innings, but Bavuma’s steady hand ensured his side posted a tricky lead that India ultimately failed to chase.
The dramatic finish added another chapter to Eden Gardens’ history of stunning turnarounds, with both teams battling under high pressure before South Africa sealed the long-awaited victory.
India will look to regroup ahead of the next Test, while South Africa carry strong momentum and renewed confidence after breaking a 15-year drought in the country.
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