Jasprit Bumrah delivered once again on the big stage, striking early to provide India their first breakthrough in the opening Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens. Despite the early wicket, the Proteas made a rapid start, reaching a fifty-run partnership inside the first 10 overs and putting immediate pressure on the Indian attack.
Shubman Gill, leading India, lost the toss yet again, and South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma chose to bat first on a surface expected to aid spinners later in the match. India entered the Test with a bold four-spinner strategy featuring Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj formed the only pace pair, with Bumrah entrusted to make the early inroads.
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South African opener Ryan Rickelton looked positive from the outset, scoring at over a run-a-ball and even driving Bumrah for a boundary in his fifth over. His aggressive approach helped the visitors race past 50 in under 60 balls, setting a brisk tone for the morning session.
A moment of pure magic from Jasprit Bumrah! 💙
One cracking delivery, one stunned batter and India strike early with a big breakthrough. 👊🇮🇳#INDvSA 1st Test LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/uK1oWLgsfx pic.twitter.com/j29zBV39Z6— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 14, 2025
However, Jasprit Bumrah returned with purpose and precision. He delivered a 140+ kph good-length ball that nipped away just enough to beat Rickelton’s defence. Playing down the wrong line, the left-hander was castled for 23 off 22 balls, ending a dangerous stand and reasserting India’s grip.
The breakthrough came at a crucial moment, halting South Africa’s momentum and showcasing Bumrah’s unmatched ability to turn the tide even in spin-friendly conditions.
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South Africa (Playing XI): Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma(c), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne(w), Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj
India (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Shubman Gill(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj
