IND vs SA 1st Test Highlights of South Africa tour of India 2025
South Africa produced one of their finest overseas performances as they stunned India with a memorable Test victory on a challenging surface. After being rolled over for just 159 on the opening day, the visitors staged an extraordinary comeback built on discipline, belief, and relentless bowling. The win is even more significant as it ticks off one of the toughest assignments in world cricket: winning a Test in India. So Let’s take a look at IND vs SA 1st Test Highlights of South Africa tour of India 2025.
A Fightback Built on Grit and Skill
Despite trailing by 30 runs in the first innings, South Africa’s bowlers ensured the match remained alive. Marco Jansen delivered the opening punch on Day 1 of India’s chase, removing both openers in quick succession and setting the tone. The spinners then took over, with Simon Harmer showcasing his remarkable control, exploiting every ounce of turn, bounce, and inconsistency the pitch offered.
India briefly steadied through Dhruv Jurel and Washington Sundar after lunch, but the pitch never allowed batters to settle. Harmer broke the stand with a wicket off a rare poor delivery—proof that pressure alone can force errors on such surfaces.
Maharaj’s Class Under Pressure
Keshav Maharaj, who admitted to feeling the nerves in fading daylight, held his composure to deliver a match-turning spell. After being struck for a boundary by Axar Patel, he immediately responded by outthinking him—thanks also to a sharp catch from Temba Bavuma. Maharaj credited Bavuma’s field placements and Harmer’s consistency, acknowledging that the pair’s partnership was key in dismantling India.
He also highlighted how South Africa’s recent success in Pakistan boosted confidence, but he emphasised that Indian conditions require a different level of skill and patience.
Bavuma’s Crucial Fifty
The innings that lifted South Africa, however, belonged to their captain. Bavuma’s gritty half-century was the only fifty of the match and came at a time when wickets were tumbling around him. His calm approach allowed South Africa to extend their lead past 120—an amount that proved more than enough on a treacherous pitch.
A Landmark Win
By early afternoon on Day 3, South Africa sealed a famous Test win. From being 93/7 to defending a tricky target with complete authority, this victory showcased character, resilience, and world-class spin bowling.
FAQs
Q1: Who was the standout performer for South Africa?
Both Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj were exceptional with the ball, while Bavuma’s vital fifty changed the game.
Q2: What made the pitch difficult?
It offered sharp turn, uneven bounce, and made batters constantly vulnerable—there was always a delivery that could dismiss you.
Q3: Why is this win historic?
Because winning a Test in India is considered one of the toughest challenges due to conditions heavily favouring spin.
Q4: How did India lose despite a first-innings lead?
South Africa outbowled India in the second innings and defended a modest target with discipline and skill.
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