Kolkata, November 16, 2025 – In a gripping Test match that swung like a pendulum, South Africa pulled off a remarkable 30-run win over India at the iconic Eden Gardens, sealing their first Test victory on Indian soil in 15 years. Set a seemingly attainable target of 124 runs, India faltered dramatically as the visiting bowlers—led by Simon Harmer and Marco Jansen—produced a relentless spell of spin and pace to dismantle the host batting lineup.
India, who started their fourth innings with high hopes, quickly lost openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul. Rishabh Pant, standing in as captain in the absence of Rohit Sharma, was dismissed cheaply, and by the time Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja tried to stabilize the innings, the collapse had already begun. Harmer proved the chief architect of India’s downfall, picking up four wickets for just 21 runs, while left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj and seamer Marco Jansen chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.
Despite a fighting 31 by Washington Sundar and a spirited effort by Axar Patel—who struck a lone six and tried to marshal the tail—India crumbled to 93 all out. Shubman Gill’s absence due to injury further hampered India’s chase, effectively leaving them a batsman short.
Earlier in the match, Ravindra Jadeja starred with the ball, claiming four wickets in South Africa’s second innings and keeping India in the hunt. But a gritty fifty from Temba Bavuma put up vital runs for the visitors, setting up a tricky chase for the hosts.
The victory drew praise from cricket fans and pundits alike, with many recalling the rarity of such results in India’s recent Test history. Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, lamented the batting collapse but praised the bowlers’ efforts. Stand-in skipper Pant acknowledged South Africa’s discipline and the Eden Gardens crowd’s support despite the disappointing result.
With this win, South Africa take a 1-0 lead in the series, and all eyes are now set on the second Test as India look to bounce back from this setback.
