Exciting Day 1 Highlights: India vs South Africa 1st Test at Eden Gardens
On 14 November 2025, the opening day of the two-Test series between India national cricket team and South Africa national cricket team took place at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The hosts made a commanding start: South Africa were bundled out for just 159 in their first innings, and India ended the day at 37 for 1, trailing by only 122 runs. The standout performance came from India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed a five-wicket haul and set the tone for the series. This blog drills into the day’s phases, key players, turning moments, contextual significance and what lies ahead as the match progresses.
1. The Toss and Early Context
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, won the toss and elected to bat first. Given the expectations of variable bounce and movement at Eden Gardens, especially early on, the decision could have paid off. However, the Indian bowlers exploited conditions superbly. ([turn0search1]turn0search1)
On paper, South Africa’s batting line-up looked formidable, especially after their strong showing on foreign tours. But India, playing at home and backed by a strong bowling unit, were prepared.
2. South Africa’s First Innings: Rise, Collapse & India’s Bowling Masterclass
2.1 Solid Start
South Africa began well, posting an opening stand of 57 between openers Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton. They looked to build a foundation and bat India out of the game. ([turn0search6]turn0search6turn0search5)
2.2 Breakthroughs & Collapse
Once that start was achieved, India’s bowlers turned the tide:
Jasprit Bumrah delivered a devastating spell, eventually finishing with 5 for 27. His control of length, ability to extract movement and deliver in crunch overs were key. ([turn0search0]
Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with two wickets, further choking the South Africa middle order. ([turn0search3]
Mohammed Siraj also contributed with two wickets, and Axar Patel got one. The collective was disciplined and ruthless.
The collapse was sharp: from a decent position, South Africa lost their last seven wickets for just 45 runs, finishing on 159 all out in 55 overs. ([turn0search7]
2.3 Top Scorer & Few Bright Spots
Aiden Markram top-scored with 31, but no other batter could produce a substantial knock. The rest of the lineup faltered under persistent pressure and variable bounce. ([turn0search3]
2.4 Key Issues for South Africa
When the bowlers struck, South Africa showed little resistance—poor shot selection and patience.
The pitch offered enough for pace and movement early, and India exploited it.
A failure to build partnerships after the start cost them dearly.
3. India’s Reply: Solid Start but Early Wicket
3.1 Opening Move
India’s reply began cautiously. Openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul took guard and tried to assess the surface. They ended the day at 37 for one in 20 overs, trailing by 122 runs. ([turn0search2]turn0search2
3.2 Early Setback
However, India faced an early blow: Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed by Marco Jansen for 12 runs, cutting short a promising start. ([turn0search3]
3.3 Steady Partnership
At stumps, KL Rahul (13) and Washington Sundar (6 not out) were at the crease, showing calmness and intent. The key for India will be to build from here and convert the bowling dominance into a lead. ([turn0search0]
4. Sessions Breakdown & Match Flow
4.1 Morning Session
South Africa started strongly but soon lost two quick wickets courtesy of Bumrah. The ball moved, the pitch offered bounce early, and India attacked with aggression.
4.2 Middle Session
Kuldeep and Siraj operated superbly, applying pressure in the middle overs. By lunch, South Africa were 105/3 at one stage, but the remainder of their lineup collapsed. ([turn0search1]
4.3 Post-Lunch & Final Session
The post-lunch phase saw the hosts wrap up South Africa’s innings inside 55 overs. They then began their own batting and ended the day with a slight edge—still trailing but in control. The final session featured an early setback, but the team recovered well and now heads into Day 2 with opportunity.
5. Standout Performers
Jasprit Bumrah: His 5-for places him in the heart of India’s success on Day 1. Controlled, lethal and decisive.
Kuldeep Yadav & Mohammed Siraj: Two wickets each, hard to distinguish given Bumrah’s limelight but critical.
India’s collective bowling: The way they built pressure and attacked phases was exemplary.
KL Rahul & Washington Sundar: Held the fort at the end of Day 1; their partnership will be vital.
6. The Significance of Day 1
6.1 Momentum Shift
By December 2025, home Test series are precious for India—they cannot squander them. A start like this is huge. Bowling out a strong side like South Africa for 159 gives India the psychological edge.
6.2 Surface & Conditions
Eden Gardens delivered variable bounce and seam movement. The hosts read conditions better, while South Africa’s decision to bat first looked defensible but backfired due to poor execution. The bowling unit exploited pace and spin smartly—a clear example of home advantage being maximised.
6.3 Long-Term Implications for the Series
In a two-match series, the first Test is often decisive. Day 1 dominance means India are positioned to take a first-innings lead and apply pressure. South Africa now face a challenge to recover.
7. What to Expect on Day 2
India need to build a healthy lead: If they can push the lead beyond 250, South Africa will be chasing shadows.
South Africa’s batters must dig in and build partnerships to avoid being outplayed.
India’s bowlers will look to continue momentum and strike early in the second innings if they bat again.
The role of spinners may grow as the match progresses; India’s spin battery will be key.
Conclusion
Day 1 of the India vs South Africa Test at Eden Gardens belonged firmly to the hosts. Bowling out the visitors for 159 and reaching 37/1 while trailing only 122 runs sets up a significant advantage. Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul, backed by smart team bowling, has swung the opening day decisively in their favour. For South Africa, the fightback must begin early on Day 2—or the match may spiral away.
For cricket fans, the battle now shifts to how India convert this start—and how South Africa respond under pressure. The venue, conditions and momentum all point India’s way—but Test cricket is far from settled after just one day.
Written By The Cricket Show:
For full match coverage, ball-by-ball updates, expert analysis and what this Test means for the future of Indian and South African cricket, visit The Cricket Show and stay ahead of every over and every wicket.
