South Africa Claims First Test Win in India in 15 Years

South Africa achieved a remarkable victory in the first Test against India, marking their first win on Indian soil in 15 years. The match concluded at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, where South Africa triumphed by 30 runs on day three, thanks in part to the absence of Indian captain Shubman Gill, who was hospitalized due to neck spasms and unable to bat while chasing a modest target of 124 runs.

Harmer Leads the Charge

Off-spinner Simon Harmer was instrumental in securing this victory, delivering a stellar performance with figures of 4-30 in the first innings and 4-21 in the second. India struggled significantly, collapsing to 93 all out as they attempted to chase down the target. A brief flurry from Axar Patel, who scored 26 runs off just 17 balls, raised hopes for the home team, but ultimately, they fell short after reaching 77-7.

Patel’s aggressive batting included two sixes and a four off spinner Keshav Maharaj, but he was dismissed while attempting another big hit, with South African captain Temba Bavuma taking a superb catch on the run. Maharaj then quickly claimed the wicket of Mohammed Siraj, sealing the win for the Proteas.

This victory ends a streak of eight Tests where South Africa had lost seven and drawn one since their last win in India, which occurred by an innings in Nagpur in 2010. With this win, South Africa takes a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Bavuma’s Leadership Shines

Bavuma’s leadership continues to impress, as he celebrated his 10th win in just 11 Tests as captain. In the second innings, under pressure at 91-7, South Africa managed to reach 153 all out, largely due to Bavuma’s unbeaten 55—the only half-century in the match. His partnership with Corbin Bosch, who contributed 25 runs, proved vital in stabilizing the innings.

South Africa had initially struggled in their first innings, posting 159 runs, while India responded with a mere 189. The pressure mounted on India as they lost early wickets in their second innings, reaching 1-2 and 38-4. Marco Jansen (2-15) and Harmer’s efforts disrupted the Indian batting line-up, with Harmer notably dismissing key players including Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja.

Despite a spirited attempt by Axar Patel, India’s hopes diminished quickly, and Maharaj’s final wickets confirmed South Africa’s significant win. This victory positions the Proteas to potentially secure their second Test series win in India, the first since a 2-0 triumph in 2000.

The second Test of the series is scheduled to take place in Guwahati from November 22-26, 2023, followed by a three-match One Day International series and five T20 internationals. This upcoming stretch presents an opportunity for both teams to build momentum in the international cricket calendar.