Kolkata, India – In a shocking turn of events, the Indian cricket team suffered a 30-run defeat against South Africa in the first Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Sunday, November 16, 2025. This loss marks South Africa's first Test victory on Indian soil in 15 years and gives them a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Following the defeat, veteran batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, usually known for his calm demeanor, expressed his frustration in a rare on-air outburst, saying the loss was "not acceptable".
India, chasing a modest target of 124, were bowled out for a mere 93 in 35 overs. The batting lineup struggled against the Proteas' bowling attack, with Simon Harmer leading the charge, taking four crucial wickets for just 21 runs. Keshav Maharaj contributed with two wickets for 37 runs, while Marco Jansen took two for 15. No Indian batter managed to reach the 50-run mark, highlighting the extent of the batting collapse. Washington Sundar's gritty 31 off 92 balls offered some resistance, but it wasn't enough to steer India to victory.
The absence of regular captain Shubman Gill, who was hospitalized due to a neck injury sustained earlier in the match, further weakened the Indian batting order. Pujara acknowledged Gill's absence as a significant blow to the team.
The match was full of twists and turns. South Africa were initially bowled out for 159 in their first innings, with Jasprit Bumrah claiming a five-wicket haul. India managed a slender 30-run lead after their first innings, scoring 189. However, the South African bowlers fought back, dismissing India for just 93 in the second innings.
The pitch at Eden Gardens proved challenging for batsmen, offering sharp turn and uneven bounce. Pujara had predicted that the pitch would become increasingly difficult to bat on as the match progressed. Even India's bowling coach, Morne Morkel, admitted that the team was surprised by how quickly the wicket deteriorated.
Pujara, reflecting on the match, emphasized the need for the Indian batting unit to adapt better to difficult pitches. He acknowledged that the team needs to find ways to score runs even when conditions are not favorable. Following the match, Pujara stated on JioStar that Indian batters will have to find a way to score runs on such pitches.
South Africa's victory has earned them crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings. They now occupy the second spot with 24 points and a percentage of 66.67. India, on the other hand, have slipped to fourth place in the WTC rankings.
The defeat has sparked criticism and debate about the Indian team's performance, particularly their vulnerability against spin bowling at home. Some, like former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, have questioned the team selection.
Despite the setback, the series is far from over. The second and final Test will be held in Guwahati starting November 22, 2025. India will be looking to bounce back and level the series, while South Africa will aim to secure a historic series win on Indian soil.
