IND vs SA Match Scorecard: Cricket lovers at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens witnessed a bowling masterclass as Jasprit Bumrah ripped apart South Africa’s batting on Day 1 of the Freedom Trophy opener. The visitors, having won the toss and opting to bat, stumbled to a paltry 159 all out inside 55 overs, leaving Team India well in control by stumps.
South Africa’s first innings never really took off, as Aiden Markram top-scored with 31 runs, while Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, and Tony de Zorzi chipped in with 23, 24, and 24 respectively. Despite brief resistance, wickets kept tumbling, and none of the partnerships flourished against India’s relentless attack. Tristan Stubbs stood unbeaten with a hard-fought 15 off 74 deliveries, but watched helplessly as the rest of his teammates failed to occupy the crease for long.
Bumrah the Destroyer
India’s bowlers made the most of a pitch offering both seam and turn. Jasprit Bumrah was the undisputed star, sending down 14 overs with pinpoint accuracy and claiming five wickets for just 27 runs, including five maidens. Kuldeep Yadav snared two crucial wickets in the middle overs, while Mohammed Siraj’s disciplined pace earned him two scalps. Axar Patel too contributed with tidy bowling, capping South Africa’s effort at 159 runs.
India’s Response: Steady but Watchful
India’s reply began on a cautious note. Yashasvi Jaiswal fell early for 12 to Marco Jansen, who bowled an economical spell with two maidens in his 6 overs. By stumps, KL Rahul (13*) and Washington Sundar (6*) had guided India to 37/1, still trailing South Africa by 122 runs. Both batters displayed patience in the fading evening light, keenly aware of the pitch’s assistance for both spin and seam.
The opening day of this two-match Test series showcased disciplined Indian bowling and a gritty South African fightback, setting the stage for a fascinating contest ahead. Day 2 will hinge on the partnership between Rahul and Sundar as India seeks a strong first-innings lead on a tricky surface.
