Watch: Jasprit Bumrah’s stunning ball dismisses Markram as Pant takes brilliant catch in IND vs SA 1st Test

South Africa began their first innings after choosing to bat, and India opened with disciplined bowling. Jasprit Bumrah extended his fiery form by removing Aiden Markram for 31, securing both South African openers inside the first session of the Kolkata Test. His impact came early, giving India full control and forcing South Africa to rethink their approach in challenging morning conditions.

The main breakthrough came in the 12th over when Bumrah bowled a 137.7 kmph delivery that bounced more than expected. The ball moved away slightly, and Markram tried to play at it but was unsure. Rishabh Pant then pulled off a brilliant one-handed catch by diving to his right, making the dismissal even more special.

Markram walked back after scoring 31 off 48 balls, with five fours and one six. His wicket ended a short 5-run stand for the second wicket. South Africa, who were comfortably placed at 57/0, suddenly slipped to 62/2 in 12.1 overs. Bumrah’s double strike shifted the momentum towards India.

Bumrah’s Early Breakthroughs Help India

By the end of the first session on Day 1 at Eden Gardens, South Africa reached 66/2 after choosing to bat. Bumrah removed both openers, Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton, putting early pressure on the visitors. Wiaan Mulder and skipper Temba Bavuma are currently at the crease, trying to steady the innings.

Watch the video here

Indian captain Shubman Gill chose a spin-heavy lineup, suggesting the team expects the pitch to offer more turn later in the match. The nature of this Test, being an important one in the World Test Championship cycle, has given India a strong start and an early advantage in the match with Bumrah's early wickets.

At the time of writing, South Africa are 85/3 in 19.3 overs during Day 1, Session 1 of the Kolkata Test. Wiaan Mulder is batting on 16, while Tony de Zorzi is on 2, with Kuldeep Yadav having taken 1 wicket so far.