South Africa Hold 122-Run Lead as Bumrah Five-For Lights Up Opening Day in Kolkata
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Kolkata
- Nov 14, 2025
- 531
Bad light brought an early end to the opening day of the Kolkata Test on Friday, but not before South Africa and India exchanged sharp blows in a tense, low-scoring contest at Eden Gardens. Only 75 overs were possible out of the scheduled 90, with an innings break reducing the day’s quota by two overs.
South Africa, put in to bat after captain Temba Bavuma won the toss, were dismissed for a modest 159 after losing wickets at regular intervals. India closed the day at 37 for 1, trailing by 122 runs, with KL Rahul unbeaten on 13 and Washington Sundar on 6. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal fell for 12, bowled through the gate by Marco Jansen.
The Proteas innings never truly recovered from early setbacks, with both openers departing inside the first hour. Eight wickets had tumbled by tea, and the end came swiftly in the final session. Jasprit Bumrah, operating in a fiery rhythm, removed Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj in the third over after the break to wrap up the innings. His 5-for marked the 16th time he has taken five wickets in a Test innings.
Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with two wickets apiece, while Axar Patel claimed one. Aiden Markram’s 31 was the highest score in an innings that struggled for partnerships.
With India beginning their reply under fading light, South Africa will hope early strikes on day two can reinforce their slim advantage, while the hosts aim to build a strong first-innings foundation.