India Collapse in Kolkata as South Africa Seal Historic Test Win
Kolkata, Nov 16 — South Africa stunned India at Eden Gardens, clinching their first Test victory on Indian soil in 15 years. Defending a modest target of 124, the visitors showcased grit and discipline to secure a 30-run win and take a 1–0 lead in the series.
India’s chase unravelled early as Marco Jansen dismissed both openers, leaving the hosts reeling at 10/2. Without injured captain Shubman Gill, India’s middle order faltered under relentless spin pressure from Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj.
Harmer’s accuracy proved decisive, dismantling partnerships and exposing India’s vulnerability on a sharply turning pitch.
Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spell of 5/27 had given India hope, restricting South Africa to 159 in the first innings. India responded with 189, but Harmer’s three wickets kept the contest balanced.
In the second innings, Temba Bavuma’s gritty 55 stood out as the only half-century of the match, guiding South Africa from 93/7 to a defendable total of 153.
Washington Sundar’s determined 31 and Axar Patel’s late fireworks briefly revived India’s chase, but Maharaj struck back to end the resistance. With Mohammed Siraj’s dismissal, South Africa sealed a dramatic win in under three days, sparking debate over the challenging Eden Gardens pitch.
The series now heads to Guwahati, where India must regroup quickly to keep their hopes alive.
