South Africa have claimed one of their biggest Test victories on the subcontinent, beating India by 30 runs in the opening match of their two-Test series in Kolkata on Sunday. Chasing a modest target of 124, India were bundled out for just 93 on the third day of the match, as South Africa's bowlers produced a brilliant performance under pressure.
India’s task seemed achievable until Marco Jansen shocked the top order, trapping opener Yashasvi Jaiswal for a duck and KL Rahul for just one in his first seven deliveries. Later, South Africa’s spin bowlers dismantled India’s batting, with Simon Harmer delivering a masterful performance, taking four crucial wickets. Keshav Maharaj and Aiden Markram backed him up nicely, claiming two and one wickets, respectively, to decimate India.
Earlier, South Africa, opting to bat, were skittled for 159, as India’s Jasprit Bumrah struck repeated blows. Bumrah’s fiery spell, 5 for just 27, gave India an early edge. However, in reply, India managed to get to 189, as South African bowlers kept frustrating Indian batters. Simon Harmer (4/30) and Marco Jansen (3/35) led a disciplined attack.
South Africa, in their second innings, were in a challenging position, losing their wickets in quick succession, but captain Temba Bavuma showed great resolve, carving out a gritty 55* off 136 balls to take South Africa to 153, setting India a modest target to chase. Notably, this is South Africa's first win in India since 2010.