IND vs SA 1st Test Day 2: India 138/4 at Lunch as South Africa Keep Pressure On
Day 2 of the India vs South Africa 1st Test at Eden Gardens continued to provide classic Test-match drama. After bundling South Africa out for 159 on Day 1, India began their reply with confidence, but the visitors came back strongly on the second morning. At lunch, India reached 138/4, still trailing by 21 runs, and the game remained far more competitive than expected.
A Steady but Cautious Start for India
India resumed play with patience, knowing the morning session would be crucial. The pitch offered extra grip and some unpredictable bounce, making it difficult for batters to score freely. South Africa used the conditions well, maintaining tight lines and not giving away easy runs.
The slow start helped India settle, but it also allowed South Africa to apply steady pressure.
KL Rahul Reaches 4000 Test Runs
A positive moment came early in the session as KL Rahul crossed 4000 runs in Test cricket. It was a proud milestone for the Indian opener, who looked comfortable for most of his stay at the crease.
However, he soon fell to Keshav Maharaj, whose sharp turn trapped Rahul at the wrong moment. This wicket shifted momentum back to South Africa.
Pant Tries to Attack but Falls Early
Rishabh Pant walked in and immediately looked to attack. He struck one huge six that excited the Kolkata crowd. But his aggressive style didn’t last long. Maharaj and Harmer stuck to their plans, forcing Pant into a risky shot that cost him his wicket.
Pant’s departure left India searching for stability as the ball began turning more consistently.
Shubman Gill’s Injury Causes Concern
One of the biggest shocks of the morning was Shubman Gill retiring hurt after feeling pain in his neck following a mistimed sweep. The physio attended to him, but he chose to walk off, leaving fans worried about his condition.
His absence created an unexpected gap in the batting line-up at a crucial stage.
Washington Sundar’s Stay Cut Short
Washington Sundar showed signs of settling in, playing spin calmly and rotating strike well. However, Simon Harmer produced a clever delivery that took the outside edge, adding to India’s troubles.
Sundar’s dismissal meant India had lost key players in quick intervals.
South Africa’s Bowling Stays Disciplined
Even with only 159 runs on the board, South Africa’s bowlers performed with full discipline.
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Maharaj and Harmer controlled the middle overs with tight spin.
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The fast bowlers kept the pressure on with consistent lengths and accuracy.
Their teamwork ensured India never felt comfortable and kept the match alive.
Match Balance: India Slightly Ahead, But SA Still in the Fight
Although India still trail by 21 runs, they remain slightly ahead thanks to their strong bowling effort on Day 1—especially Jasprit Bumrah’s five-wicket haul. If the Indian lower order can secure even a small lead, it could be crucial on a pitch that continues to deteriorate.
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