Kolkata, November 16, 2025 - Temba Bavuma's resilient half-century has become the talking point of the first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. On a challenging pitch, where no other batter from either side had managed to cross the 40-run mark in the three previous innings, the South African captain stood tall with an unbeaten 55, providing a glimmer of hope for his team.
Bavuma's gritty innings was a blend of patience and precision. He demonstrated a cautious defensive approach, judiciously leaving deliveries outside off stump, and remained composed against the relentless probing of the Indian bowlers. His resilience earned him a standing ovation from the Eden Gardens crowd.
Resuming the day on 93 for 7, South Africa's second innings ended at 153, setting India a target of 124 runs to win the opening Test. Mohammed Siraj's double strike hastened the end, but it was Bavuma's 44-run eighth-wicket stand with Corbin Bosch that frustrated the Indian bowlers early in the day. Jasprit Bumrah eventually broke the partnership, dismissing Bosch for 25.
Bavuma's innings, which included four boundaries, came off 136 balls. This was his 26th Test fifty and his seventh 50-plus score in his last 11 Tests. It was also his first Test fifty in India across 10 innings.
India will be without Shubman Gill, who was ruled out of the match due to a neck injury sustained while batting on Saturday.
Ravindra Jadeja was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking 4 wickets for 50 runs. His left-arm spin caused havoc in the South African top and middle order on the second day. Kuldeep Yadav also chipped in with two wickets. Earlier, India were bowled out for 189 in their first innings, in response to South Africa's 159.
The Eden Gardens pitch has offered uneven bounce and sharp turn, making it a challenging surface for batting. Axar Patel had noted the previous evening that a chase of no more than 125 would be preferable on this pitch.
Bavuma's contribution has given South Africa a fighting chance in the Test match. However, India's task has been made tougher by the absence of Shubman Gill.
