Daijiworld Media Network - Guwahati
Guwahati, Nov 22: Kuldeep Yadav delivered a superb three-wicket spell to headline India’s disciplined bowling display on Day 1 of the first-ever Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, restricting South Africa to 247/6 in 81.5 overs before bad light brought an early close.
The left-arm wrist-spinner finished with 3/48, while Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja claimed a wicket each. Despite every South African batter getting a start, none managed to convert it into a fifty, allowing India to maintain control throughout the day.
With the visitors now into the lower order, India will aim to wrap up the innings quickly on Day 2.
South Africa enjoyed a steady start after opting to bat, with openers Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton negotiating the early spells from Bumrah and Siraj. Markram survived a dropped catch by KL Rahul and helped the Proteas reach 34/0 at the first drinks break. India introduced spin early through Kuldeep and Washington Sundar, but it was Bumrah’s fiery return late in the session that ended Markram’s stay for 38, giving India their first breakthrough before tea.
The second session swung India’s way as Kuldeep dismissed Rickelton with a beautifully flighted delivery. Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs then rebuilt with patience and control, adding 84 runs for the third wicket. Bavuma looked assured, striking Jadeja and Siraj for boundaries, while Stubbs showcased confidence with a six off Kuldeep.
India’s persistence eventually paid off when Jadeja dismissed Bavuma for 41, before Kuldeep removed Stubbs for 49 with a sharply bouncing delivery. He then claimed Wiaan Mulder, tempting him into a mistimed lofted shot.
Late in the day, Siraj delivered a crucial strike with the second new ball, with Pant taking a brilliant diving catch to remove Tony de Zorzi. The wicket gave India a lift just as South Africa looked to rebuild again.
Siraj had earlier suffered a knee knock after colliding with Stubbs, but returned to bowl after on-field treatment. The crowd, initially sparse, gradually grew as the day progressed, witnessing a contest marked by disciplined bowling and determined batting.
Brief Scores:
South Africa 247/6 in 81.5 overs (Tristan Stubbs 49, Temba Bavuma 41; Kuldeep Yadav 3-48, Ravindra Jadeja 1-30) vs India