SA END 15-YEAR TEST DROUGHT IN INDIA

South Africa pulled off a dramatic 30-run win against India in the first Test at Eden Gardens, marking their first Test victory on Indian soil in 15 years.

Off-spinner Simon Harmer was the star with the ball, finishing with match figures of eight wickets and strangling India’s chase of 124.

India’s troubles were compounded by the absence of their captain, Shubman Gill, who was forced to retire hurt early in the match due to a neck spasm and wasn’t seen again at the crease.

Chasing the small target, India crumbled under pressure on a turning track, managing only 93 in 35 overs as South Africa’s bowlers exploited every stumble.

Temba Bavuma played a calm captain’s knock, top-scoring with an unbeaten 55 to help lift South Africa’s second-innings total. Marco Jansen also played a key role, striking early and often to keep India in check.

Meanwhile, fans and observers reacted with surprise and concern: India’s inability to chase a modest total at home raised fresh questions about their performance under pressure, especially on tricky spin-friendly surfaces.

This win keeps South Africa in control of the two-match series and delivers a major boost to their World Test Championship credentials.

Image credit: BBC