South Africa accomplished the impossible at Eden Gardens, handing India a shocking 30-run Test defeat after one of the most gripping Tests in recent memory. Pursuing only 124 on a treacherous track that offered exaggerated sideways movement and unpredictable bounce, India capitulated for a pathetic 93 under pressure without their injured captain, Shubman Gill. This victory was South Africa’s first in a Test match in India for 15 years and the second smallest successful defence on Asian soil.
The two men of the match had played that innings, with the captain, Temba Bavum, playing the most important role. His undefeated 55 was the only half-century of the match from any batsman and it sagely personified patience, discipline and mental fortitude on a pitch where run-making was next to impossible. Bavuma had already withstood India’s best bowling on the second evening and had pushed on with similar force by the time he resumed on the third morning.
Bavuma took South Africa’s lead to 123, with a little help from Corbin Bosch for a short while (he did hit a few boundaries on the way to 25 not out). Those runs proved match-winning. The Indian bowlers, who had posed a threat for the majority of the first two days, failed to find consistency in the morning. Ravindra Jadeja, who had been outstanding previously, lost rhythm and bowled loosely and Washington Sundar was not used at all despite him being one of India’s three spinners.
It was a disastrous start to India’s chase after Marco Jansen delivered with steep bounce and picked up both openers in his first two overs. And then Simon Harmer stepped in, demonstrating his skill and cunning to take 4 for 21. A variation of pace and an interesting trajectory kept Rishabh Pant in check before Harmer’s caught-and-bowled ended his stay. Washington Sundar was promoted to No. 3 and worked hard for his 31, but had precious little support at the other end. Once again, Jadeja’s habit of playing with the bat behind his pad cost him as he was dismissed lbw for the second time in the game off Harmer. Kuldeep Yadav (1) and Dhruv Jurel (18) too succumbed as South Africa completely took control of the game.
Axar Patel attempted to counterattack with two sixes and a four, providing India with fleeting hope before an excellent over-the-shoulder catch from Bavuma halted that resistance. South Africa went through the motions and wrapped up their innings early and loud celebrations could be heard, especially from Kagiso Rabada who missed the Test due to injury but had suffered years of disappointment in India. It was an incredible fightback from the brink by South Africa and evidence of India’s difficulties on a tough pitch.
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