India Faces Setback at 10-2 Chasing 124 Against South Africa

India is struggling at 10-2 in their pursuit of 124 runs for victory against South Africa during the third day of the first cricket Test at Kolkata’s historic Eden Gardens. The situation worsened when Indian captain Shubman Gill was hospitalized for observation after suffering a neck spasm while batting on day two. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Sunday that Gill will take no further part in this match, effectively placing India at 10-3, needing an additional 114 runs to secure a win.

As the players returned for lunch, Washington Sundar stood at the crease with 5 not out, while Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 4. In a brief seven-over session before lunch, South African bowler Marco Jansen made his mark by dismissing both Indian openers. First, Yashasvi Jaiswal was caught behind for a duck after facing just four balls, followed by Lokesh Rahul, who managed only one run before his dismissal.

Earlier in the day, South Africa had been bowled out for 153 runs in their second innings, adding a crucial 60 runs to their overnight score of 93-7. Temba Bavuma, the South African captain, was the standout performer, scoring 55 not out from 136 balls. His innings proved vital, guiding his team to a challenging target for India. Bavuma formed a significant partnership with Corbin Bosch, contributing 44 runs for the eighth wicket that frustrated the Indian bowlers.

Bavuma’s half-century was the only one recorded in the match by either side. He reached his milestone after 122 balls faced, helping South Africa to a first-hour score of 51-1. The breakthrough for India came with Jasprit Bumrah bowling Bosch in the 48th over. Following that, Mohammed Siraj claimed two wickets in the 54th over, bringing an end to the Proteas’ innings.

The match has progressed rapidly, with 15 wickets falling on day two. India managed to score 189 runs in response to South Africa’s first innings total of 159, showcasing a competitive display on the pitch. This test marks the first time Eden Gardens has hosted a match since 2019. Notably, South Africa has not won a Test in India in 15 years, with their last series victory on Indian soil dating back to 2000-01.

The second Test is set to commence in Guwahati on November 22, where both teams will look to shift the momentum in their favor.