Jasprit Bumrah delivered a breathtaking performance at Eden Gardens on Friday, dismantling the South African cricket team with his extraordinary skill and precision. The Indian pacer claimed five wickets for just 27 runs, leading to South Africa being bowled out for a meager 159 runs on a pitch that offered variable bounce.
This achievement marked Bumrah’s third five-wicket haul at home and 16th overall in his career. By the end of the opening day, India had managed to reach 37 runs for the loss of one wicket, with K.L. Rahul contributing 13 runs in 59 balls, while Washington Sundar was at the crease with six runs off 38 balls.
India benefited from the absence of South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, who was sidelined due to a rib injury, diminishing the opposition’s strength. The South Africans won the toss and opted to bat first, with Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton giving them a promising start by adding 57 runs. Markram showcased his aggressive style with an impressive six off Axar Patel, setting an initial positive tone for the visitors.
However, once Bumrah struck, the South African batting order crumbled. Rickelton fell victim to Bumrah’s precise delivery that uprooted his off stump, and shortly after, Markram was dismissed, caught by Rishabh Pant after an awkward delivery from Bumrah.
Kuldeep Yadav also made his mark, utilizing the well-prepared pitch to effectively trap Temba Bavuma, who was caught at leg-slip after failing to negotiate a turning ball. South Africa’s middle order struggled as Wiaan Mulder and Tony de Zorzi attempted to build a partnership, only to be thwarted by a well-timed leg-before decision against Mulder following a risky reverse-sweep off Kuldeep.
Bumrah’s remarkable spell included a combination of fiery yorkers and clever variations, leading him to claim wickets at vital moments. Mohammed Siraj also capitalized on Bumrah’s initial success, removing Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen in quick succession.
In the end, Bumrah’s stellar bowling performance concluded with the dismissals of Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, culminating in a roar of excitement from the 36,000 fans present at the stadium.
As the match progresses, India’s solid position gives them ample opportunity to capitalize on their strong bowling display. Their ability to contain and dismantle the South African batting lineup suggests a promising outlook for the home team in this Test series.