The opening India-South Africa Test at Eden Gardens has turned into a stern examination for batsmen, with uneven bounce and sharp turn making every run hard to earn. As Day 3 begins, the South Africa cricket team will resume at 93/7, with only 63 runs in the lead. Temba Bavuma (29*) and Corbin Bosch (1*) continue to be their last recognised pair after a dramatic collapse on Day 2.
The Indian cricket team had earlier folded for 189 and gained a slim 30-run first innings lead after bowling out the visitors for 159. As per a Reuters report, Ravindra Jajega’s four wickets (4/29) were crucial to India’s grip on the match, especially on a surface where balls are unexpectedly skidding or leaping. Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel also made a contribution in leaving South Africa disturbed. Bavuma’s calm strike was the only resistance on a day where 16 wickets fell.
Shubman Gill’s injury puts added pressure
India faced their own setback as Shubman Gill, after walking out at Number 4, struck a boundary and immediately clutched his neck in discomfort. As per an ANI report, the Indian test captain was taken to a private hospital for scans and has been observed for a neck spasm. His absence meant deputy Rishabh Pant captained the side during South Africa’s second innings. Gill has struggled with neck stiffness during an earlier home series as well, and bowling coach Morne Morkel described the latest incident as ‘’unfortunate,” while ruling out workload concerns.
In batting terms, India’s Day 2 was interrupted when Simon Harmer removed Washington Sundar and KL Rahul in quick succession. Rahul’s 39 remained the highest score, highlighting how challenging the pitch has been for both teams. Pant, returning from injury, counterattacked for a brief period with 27 before being out by Bosch.
India vs South Africa 1st Test Day 3 Weather Report
According to AccuWeather, Kolkata will have hazy sunshine through the morning with temperatures increasing from 18 degrees Celsius to around 28 degrees Celsius in the afternoon. The evening is forecast to be clear, falling back to 21-22 degrees Celsius. No rain prediction, meaning conditions will stay dry. It is expected to be ideal for bowlers to explore the pitch.
With South Africa just three wickets away from ending their innings, India sense a real opportunity to push for a result before the end of Day 3.