South Africa Stun India by 30 Runs in Low-Scoring Thriller at Eden Gardens, Take 1–0 Lead

South Africa pulled off a remarkable 30-run victory over India in a tense, low-scoring contest at Eden Gardens, taking a 1–0 lead in the two-Test series while securing vital World Test Championship points. Defending a modest target of 124 on a turning Day 3 surface, the visitors bowled out India for just 93, with off-spinner Simon Harmer delivering a match-winning performance.

Harmer, who finished with 4/21 in the second innings and eight wickets in the match, exploited the rough expertly alongside left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj (2/37), leaving India’s batting lineup in disarray. Washington Sundar top-scored for India with 31, but the rest of the batting order crumbled under pressure.

South Africa had earlier been bundled out for 159 in their first innings, with Jasprit Bumrah (5/27) and Kuldeep Yadav tightening India’s early grip on the game. India responded with 189, led by contributions from KL Rahul (39) and Sundar (29), but their innings was disrupted when captain Shubman Gill retired hurt with a neck spasm and did not return.

A gritty 55 from Temba Bavuma in South Africa’s second innings lifted the visitors to 153, setting India a target that looked achievable but proved challenging on a deteriorating surface.

The decisive moment came in the morning session on Day 3 when Bavuma and Corbin Bosch steadied South Africa with a crucial stand, pushing the lead beyond India’s comfort zone.

Post-Match Reactions

Rishabh Pant, India’s Stand-In Captain, admitted the team fell short under pressure:
"We should’ve chased that target, but the pressure built up and we didn’t capitalise. Temba and Bosch’s partnership really hurt us. The pitch had some help, and though 120 looked gettable, it was tricky. We’ll regroup and come back stronger."

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma called it a hard-fought win:
"Very exciting game. It was tough to bat, but things went our way. Our bowlers were exceptional, and that partnership with Bosch turned the match. A win like this shows our character and composure under pressure."

Player of the Match Simon Harmer said he was happy to contribute:
"As the ball got softer, it played flatter, so I asked myself a few tough questions. It’s great to contribute, especially after tough losses earlier. The team showed belief and resilience. I’m not one for stats — I’m here to win."

With the next Test approaching, India will look to bounce back and level the series, while South Africa aim to build on one of their most memorable away wins in recent years.

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