Get ready for an intense cricket battle as India takes on South Africa in the first Test match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata!
A Tough Battle for Batters
The ongoing Test match has been a real challenge for batters, with the pitch behaving unpredictably. On Day 2, South Africa's second innings saw them struggle, ending with a score of 93/7, a lead of just 63 runs. Temba Bavuma, South Africa's captain, has been the standout batter so far, and he'll be hoping to guide his team past the 100-run mark today.
The Mystery Pitch
The pitch has been a real enigma. For pacers, it's offering an uneven bounce, keeping them on their toes. Meanwhile, spinners are enjoying plenty of turn and bounce. It's a tricky surface, and the batters are finding it tough to adapt.
India's Strong Start
India began Day 2 strongly, with KL Rahul and Washington Sundar putting on a solid partnership. However, Simon Harmer's introduction to the attack changed the game, dismissing both batters quickly. Shubman Gill came in but soon had to leave the field due to a neck spasm. Rahul's top score of 39 highlights the difficulty batters are facing on this track.
Axar Patel's Take
Axar Patel, speaking after Day 2, emphasized the need for an attacking mindset. He said, "From one end, it feels straightforward, but from the other, everything is happening. You have to convert loose balls and keep an attacking mindset. Patience is crucial. If we can keep South Africa under 125, it should be chaseable."
Live Updates
Follow the live score and updates here:
Nov 16, 2025, 10:02 AM IST: Bumrah enters the attack, and Bavuma flicks a good length delivery behind for two runs. A tight over ends with a single in the final ball.
SA - 123/7 (44), lead by 93 runs
Nov 16, 2025, 9:50 AM IST: BIG LBW CALL! India reviews. Bavuma attempted a sweep but was hit on the back thigh. UltraEdge shows it pitched outside leg. The on-field call stands.
SA - 109/7 (41), lead by 79 runs
Nov 16, 2025, 9:42 AM IST: Bavuma takes a single, followed by a loose ball from Jadeja, which Bosch sweeps for a four! A dot ends the over.
SA - 104/7 (39), lead by 74 runs
Nov 16, 2025, 9:35 AM IST: Axar keeps it tight, conceding just three runs in the 36th over. Bavuma and Bosch look to add more runs.
SA - 96/7 (36), lead by 66 runs
Nov 16, 2025, 9:14 AM IST: Stay tuned for the first session, starting at 9:30 AM IST!
Gill's Absence
Morkel, speaking after Day 2, expressed his disappointment over Gill's absence due to a stiff neck. He said, "Gill is a fit guy, and this morning's stiff neck was unfortunate timing. We needed another partnership with him batting around."
Controversial Pitch?
The Eden Gardens pitch has received criticism. Initially, it seemed like a typical subcontinent track, good for batting for the first two days. But on Day 1, the top surface began to deteriorate. By Day 2, it became almost unplayable, with fast bowlers contributing to the majority of wickets.
Jadeja's Historic Day
On Day 2, Ravindra Jadeja made history, becoming only the fourth player ever to achieve the double of 4000 runs and 300 wickets in Test cricket. He joins an elite group, including Kapil Dev, as the second Indian to reach this milestone.
A Crucial Day
Today is a huge day for both teams. India's bowlers will aim to wrap up South Africa's innings quickly, while Bavuma and Bosch will try to frustrate the Indian attack. With South Africa leading by just 63 runs, it's all to play for!
Join the Discussion
What do you think of the pitch conditions? Is it a fair playing field, or is it too much of a challenge for the batters? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
