Historic Win at Eden Gardens, South Africa Taste Success on Indian Soil After 15 Years

South Africa took a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series by securing a 30-run victory over India the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This is the Proteas’ first Test win on Indian soil in 15 years. The match ended in less than three days, with India bowled out for just 93 runs in the second innings, failing to chase the modest target of 124.

Off-spinner Simon Harmer played the most decisive role in South Africa’s win. He dismantled the Indian batting lineup with figures of 4 for 21 in 14 overs. Keshav Maharaj (2-37) and Marco Jansen (2-15) provided strong support. Harmer claimed match figures of 8 for 51 and was named Player of the Match.

India found themselves in batting trouble right from the beginning. The absence of captain Shubman Gill increased their worries even more. Gill felt discomfort in his neck while batting on the second day, was taken to the hospital, and did not return to the field.

Before lunch, Jansen put India under pressure by removing both openers. He dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal for a duck in just four balls and then sent back Lokesh Rahul for 1. With Gill unavailable, India were effectively reduced to 10-3.

After lunch, Dhruv Jurel and Washington Sundar added 32 runs for the third wicket. But Jurel (13) hit Harmer straight to deep field. Soon after, Rishabh Pant (2) offered an easy return catch and departed.

Sundar (31) tried to hold the innings together, but India’s collapse was sealed when he edged part-time spinner Aiden Markram to slip. Later, although Axar Patel scored a quick 26, Maharaj dismissed him and Mohammed Siraj in the same over to wrap up a historic win for South Africa.

Earlier, South Africa were bowled out for 153 in their second innings. Resuming at 93-7, they added 60 crucial runs in the morning to set a challenging target. Captain Temba Bavuma led from the front with a fighting unbeaten 55. He shared a 44-run partnership with Corbin Bosch, frustrating the Indian bowlers.