A dramatic second day at Eden Gardens saw 16 wickets tumble as South Africa finished at 93/7 at stumps on day two, holding a 63-run lead against India in the first Test at Eden Gardens. What began as a position of relative stability for the visitors quickly turned into chaos as India’s spinners triggered a stunning collapse. India’s spin trio, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, tore through the batting order in the final two sessions.
South Africa, who started their second innings with a 30-run deficit after posting 159 in their first innings, appeared in control early on. But India's Ravindra Jadeja, who was the architect of South Africa’s downfall, produced a masterful spell to claim 4 wickets. Kuldeep Yadav backed him up superbly, picking up 2 wickets, while Axar Patel chipped in with 1. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma is holding firm with a determined 29* off 78 balls, while Corbin Bosch remains unbeaten on 1.
Earlier in the day, India were bowled out for 189, gaining only a 30-run lead after South Africa’s below-par first-innings effort of 159. Indian batters struggled to get starts, with the Proteas’ disciplined bowling attack keeping things in check. Heading into day three, South Africa will look to stretch their lead to stage their comeback in the game.