Can India Seize the Lead Against South Africa in the 1st Test?
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Synopsis
As the first Test match unfolds at Eden Gardens, India is tantalizingly close to taking the lead over South Africa, despite facing early challenges. Discover how the team navigated through a tough morning session and what lies ahead in this thrilling encounter.
Key Takeaways
- India's batting depth is being tested.
- Early wickets could change the game's momentum.
- Rishabh Pant's return adds strength to the lineup.
- KL Rahul's milestone highlights his contribution.
- South Africa's bowling strategy is proving effective.
Kolkata, Nov 15 (NationPress) India has positioned itself within striking distance of overtaking South Africa in the inaugural Test match at Eden Gardens, despite facing the loss of wickets during the morning session of day two’s play.
The home team managed to score 101 runs in the morning session while losing three wickets, with captain Shubman Gill retiring hurt due to a neck spasm. The first hour produced 38 runs without any wickets falling, but the pace quickened in the second hour with 63 runs added, although it came at the cost of vital wickets.
In the morning session, KL Rahul and Washington Sundar excelled under challenging batting conditions. Rahul struck boundaries off Maharaj and Marco Jansen, becoming the 18th Indian batter to reach 4000 Test runs, while Sundar confidently played Jansen for four, sweeping and lofting Maharaj for four and six, respectively.
South Africa’s strategy to introduce Harmer paid off as he bowled Sundar, who edged the ball to first slip. Gill showcased his elegance with a sweep for four before retiring hurt due to an unexpected neck spasm. Regardless, Rahul displayed aggression, dancing down the pitch to hit Maharaj for six.
Rishabh Pant, making his international comeback after a fractured right foot in July, was dropped by Aiden Markram at slip and scored a boundary off Harmer. On the following ball, Pant launched Maharaj over long-off for six.
Although Maharaj had Rahul caught at first slip for 39, Pant sent him over long-on for another six, surpassing Virender Sehwag to become the Indian batter with the most sixes in Tests. Just before the lunch break, Pant attempted to pull a rising delivery from Corbin Bosch, resulting in a top-edge caught by the keeper. Despite Jurel and Jadeja seeing off the remaining deliveries, the thrilling first session has set the stage for more excitement in the second session.
Brief Scores: South Africa 159 (Aiden Markram 31; Jasprit Bumrah 5-27) leads India 138/4 in 45 overs (KL Rahul 39, Washington Sundar 29; Corbin Bosch 1-6, Simon Harmer 1-22) by 21 runs.
Point of View
It's evident that India is rising to the occasion in this Test match against South Africa. The resilience shown by the players, especially in challenging conditions, reflects a promising outlook for the series. With the match still hanging in the balance, fans from across the nation are keenly awaiting the unfolding drama.
NationPress
15/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is leading in the 1st Test between India and South Africa?
As of now, South Africa leads with 159 runs, while India has scored 138/4.
What were the key performances in the morning session?
KL Rahul scored 39 runs and Washington Sundar contributed 29 runs despite losing wickets.
What happened to Shubman Gill during the match?
Shubman Gill retired hurt due to a neck spasm after playing a few shots.
How did Rishabh Pant perform in his return match?
Rishabh Pant hit several boundaries, including a six, as he made his comeback after injury.
What is the significance of KL Rahul's achievement?
KL Rahul became the 18th Indian batter to reach 4000 Test runs during this match.
