The first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens began with the kind of intensity that reminds fans why Test cricket remains unmatched. India’s players looked refreshed, confident and eager, and one moment in particular captured the energy of the day — Rishabh Pant reading a wicket almost before it happened.
Rishabh Pant, who has just returned to the side after recovering from a foot fracture sustained during the England series in July, showed why his presence behind the stumps makes a difference. Just before Temba Bavuma fell to Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant had already alerted the fielders, sensing something was about to unfold.
Kuldeep floated the ball beautifully, drawing Temba Bavuma forward. The South African captain couldn’t quite get to the pitch of it and ended up defending with firm hands. The ball bounced close to him, spun slightly, brushed the inside edge and travelled low to backward short leg, where Dhruv Jurel reacted brilliantly to complete the catch.
As teammates rushed to celebrate with Kuldeep Yadav, Dhruv Jurel was quick to acknowledge that Rishabh Pant’s sharp anticipation had played a part in creating the moment.
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By lunch, India had tightened their grip even further. Jasprit Bumrah, in his usual composed and destructive rhythm, claimed two wickets after South Africa’s promising start. The visitors had reached 57 without loss after choosing to bat but Bumrah sent both Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram back, applying pressure when India needed it the most.
India’s approach for the match also reflected a bold mindset under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership. For the first time since the 2012 Nagpur Test against England, they went in with four spinners. Axar Patel returned to the XI, replacing Sai Sudharsan, who trained separately with the physio earlier in the day. The team seemed determined to make full use of Kolkata’s conditions.
South Africa, on the other hand, took a more conservative route with just two spinners, leaving out Senuran Muthusamy, despite his strong recent performances. Kagiso Rabada’s absence due to a rib injury forced them to rely on Marco Jansen and Corbin Bosch as their pace pair.
Day 1 set the tone for an engaging contest, with Rishabh Pant’s instinct, India’s strategic gamble and Jasprit Bumrah’s early blows making the opening session one to remember.
