The test match has returned to Kolkata’s Eden Gardens after 6 long years. However, the opening day of the India national cricket team vs South Africa national cricket team clash delivered high drama, skill, and milestones. Yet, Yashaswi Jaiswal failed to deliver the expected performance. Still, Jasprit Bumrah stole the spotlight with a sensational five-wicket haul.
Bumrah Headlines the Day With 5/27
After winning the toss, South African skipper Temba Bavuma decided to bat first. Still, the plan backfired on him, as the visitor collapsed after a positive start of 57 runs in 10.3 overs. Moreover, Bumrah unleashed a devastating spell by picking up 5 wickets, including Markram, Rickelton, de Zorzi, Harmer, and Maharaj. The control, late movement, and precision of Bumrah proved too good for the Proteas. Hence, he has earned his 16th five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
Mohammed Siraj was equally impactful, as he removed two crucial middle-order batsmen. Moreover, Kuldeep Yadav (2) and Axar Patel (1) supported well to bowl out the visitors for just 159 runs. However, it becomes the second-lowest total of visitors against the host.
This was yet another display of the world-class skill from Siraj and Bumrah for the UAE fans who followed the bowling dominance of India. However, both pacers became two players who continue to shape the Test Success of India.
Yashasvi Jaiswal Falls Early Again — But Overtakes Sachin Tendulkar’s Big Record
All eyes were on Yashasvi Jaiswal, especially after his underwhelming South Africa tour, where he scored only 50 runs in four innings. However, the opener felt cheaply once again, as he got dismissed for 12 off 27 balls by Marco Jasen.
He looked shaky from the start and eventually inside-edged the ball onto his stumps while attempting a cramped cut shot. Moreover, the Head coach Gautam Gambhir looked visibly disappointed as the youngster walked back. Despite his early failure, Jaiswal achieved a historic milestone.
Jaiswal surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s record after 50 Test innings
After his dismissal, his overall tally reached 2,450 runs in 50 innings. Hence, he has surpassed Tendulkar’s 2,415 runs at the same stage. Now, only the following players sit above him:
- Gautam Gambhir (2,692 runs)
- Rahul Dravid (2,540 runs)
Therefore, this record has made early test career of Jaiswal one of the most prolific for an Indian opener. However, it is a key point of optimism despite his struggle against Proteas’ pace.
KL Rahul Anchors as India Close Day 1 at 37/1
After Jaiswal’s early loss, KL Rahul and Washington Sundar held their ground against the spin duo of South Africa, Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer. Rahul showed immense patience by remaining unbeaten on 13 off 59 balls. In contrast, Sundar was on 6 off 38 balls.
India has finished Day 1 at 37/1 while trailing by 122 runs. However, the scorecard might look slow. Still, the part ensured that no further damage was done on a pitch showing sign of variable bounce.
On the other hand, the decision to send Sundar at no.3 by replacing Sudharshan, has also sparked debate, especially among fans watching from the UAE, where Indian cricket remains massively popular. As of now, the move seems fair if not spectacular.
Match Scorecard Summary – Day 1
South Africa 1st Innings: 159 all out
- Bumrah: 5/27
- Mohammed Siraj: 2 wickets
- Kuldeep Yadav: 2
- Axar Patel: 1
India 1st Innings: 37/1
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: 12
- KL Rahul: 13*
- Washington Sundar: 6*
Indian bowlers, especially Bumrah and Siraj, have grabbed the spotlight on Day 1 by displaying elite skills to dismantle the South African batting. However, India will look to build a commanding first-innings total with Rahul and Sundar.
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