India Tighten Grip as Eden Gardens Pitch Sparks Dramatic Collapse on Day 2

A gripping second day of the first Test between India and South Africa unfolded at Eden Gardens, where a rapidly crumbling surface triggered a cascade of wickets and handed India a strong advantage. As many as 16 wickets tumbled through the day, with both teams struggling against sharp turn and unpredictable bounce, but India managed to seize control by stumps.

After being bowled out for 189 earlier in the day, India responded with a fierce bowling effort that left South Africa reeling at 93 for 7 in their second innings. Ravindra Jadeja emerged as the central figure, producing a commanding spell that dismantled the middle order. His left-arm spin repeatedly exposed South Africa’s vulnerability on a surface offering significant assistance to bowlers.

South Africa, who had begun the day by finishing their first innings at 159, found themselves under immediate pressure once they returned to bat. The Indian attack struck in quick intervals, with every spinner extracting dangerous turn and uneven bounce. The visitors’ batters struggled to build partnerships, often beaten by deliveries that either shot low or turned sharply past the edge.

Captain Temba Bavuma offered the lone sign of resistance, remaining unbeaten at 29 as wickets fell steadily around him. With only three wickets in hand and still trailing India, his task on Day 3 is immense.

For India, the match situation has shifted decisively in their favour. If their bowlers wrap up the remaining South African wickets early on the third morning, the hosts would be positioned to set a challenging chase on a pitch growing more treacherous by the hour.

As the Test heads into its third day, the pressure weighs heavily on the visitors to counter a surface that has already dominated batters on both sides. India, by contrast, hold momentum firmly in their grasp.