Kolkata, November 15, 2025 – Day 2 of the first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens promises a fascinating contest, with India looking to capitalize on their strong bowling performance from the previous day. After dismissing South Africa for a modest 159, the Indian batting lineup faces a tricky morning session, with KL Rahul and Washington Sundar at the crease, tasked with navigating a pitch that is expected to offer challenges.
India resumed their innings at 37 for 1, trailing South Africa by 122 runs. The early loss of Yashasvi Jaiswal has put some pressure on the Indian batting order, and the partnership between Rahul and Sundar will be crucial in establishing a solid platform.
Yesterday, the Indian bowlers dominated the proceedings, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the charge with a brilliant spell of 5 for 27. Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav provided excellent support, taking two wickets each. South Africa's innings began positively with a fifty-run opening stand, but Bumrah's intervention shifted the momentum decisively in India's favor. Kuldeep Yadav then took the wicket of captain Temba Bavuma.
The pitch at Eden Gardens is offering variable bounce and some seam movement, which could trouble the batsmen. The overcast conditions may also assist the bowlers, making the first session critical for both teams. India will aim to build a substantial lead to put South Africa under pressure, while the visitors will look to strike early and disrupt India's progress.
KL Rahul, who was lucky to survive a close call late on Day 1, will be key to India's chances. His experience and composure will be vital in negotiating the challenges posed by the South African bowlers. Washington Sundar, known for his solid technique and temperament, will also play a crucial role in stabilizing the innings and building a partnership with Rahul.
For South Africa, the onus will be on their seam bowlers to exploit the conditions and pick up early wickets. Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi will need to be at their best to trouble the Indian batsmen and prevent them from building a big lead. The role of Keshav Maharaj's left-arm spin will also be important as the pitch begins to offer more turn.
This two-match series is significant for both teams as they aim to improve their positions in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. India is currently third in the WTC standings and will be keen to strengthen their push for a top-two finish and a spot in the 2027 WTC final. South Africa, the defending champions, are currently fifth and need to win this series to boost their chances of retaining the title.
