KL Rahul & Washington Sundar aim for a strong start News24 –

On a challenging Eden Gardens pitch, Jasprit Bumrah produced a stunning spell of 5-27 as South Africa were bundled out for 159 in the first Test of the two-match series against India. Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with two wickets each. At stumps, India find themselves 122 runs behind, with Yashasvi Jaiswal dismissed for 12. KL Rahul (13*) and Washington Sundar (6*) remain unbeaten, holding India together at the crease.

The Kolkata Test, beginning on November 14, marks the first time India and South Africa are facing off in the longest format on Indian soil since 2020. India, buoyed by their recent performances, will aim to continue their home Test dominance, having drawn the last two away Tests in South Africa.

South Africa had a bright start, with Ryan Rickleton and Aiden Markram putting on a 50-run opening stand before Bumrah struck twice in quick succession. Kuldeep Yadav removed captain Temba Bavuma and Wiaan Mulder, while Siraj dismissed Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen. Axar Patel accounted for Corbin Bosch, and Bumrah wrapped up the innings by claiming Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj.

With India eyeing the World Test Championship 2027 final, this series is a crucial step, especially against the WTC titleholders, led by Bavuma, making his return as South Africa’s Test captain since the 2025 WTC final against Australia.