South Africa clinched a hard-fought 30-run victory over India in the opening Test of the two-match World Test Championship series, wrapping up the contest on Day 3.
Batting first, South Africa were restricted to just 159 runs in their first innings. Aiden Markram top-scored with 31, while India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah ripped through the lineup with a brilliant five-wicket haul. Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with two wickets each.
India replied with 189 in their first innings, taking a 30-run lead. KL Rahul anchored the innings with a composed 39. Simon Harmer starred with the ball for South Africa, claiming four wickets, while Marco Jansen added three.
South Africa fought back strongly in their second innings, posting 153. Captain Temba Bavuma held the innings together with a crucial unbeaten 55. Ravindra Jadeja picked up four wickets for India, while Kuldeep Yadav and Siraj took two apiece.
Set a modest target of 124, India appeared to be in control, but South Africa’s bowlers produced a stunning performance, bundling India out for just 93. Harmer once again led the charge with four wickets, while Jansen and Keshav Maharaj grabbed two each.
With this victory, South Africa take a 1–0 lead in the series and move ahead in the World Test Championship standings. Simon Harmer was named Player of the Match for his all-round bowling brilliance.
