The opening Test between India and South Africa at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens began with high intensity, and Jasprit Bumrah once again proved why he is one of the most dangerous red-ball bowlers in world cricket. On Day 1, the Indian pace spearhead delivered a sensational spell, picking up key wickets and breaking a major national record.
South Africa began strongly after winning the toss, as Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton stitched a steady partnership. The pair added 57 runs for the opening wicket and looked set for a promising start. But the momentum shifted dramatically once Bumrah was introduced into the attack.
Bumrah’s Double Strike Turns the Game
Bumrah struck with a perfect in-seamer to clean-bowl Rickelton for 23, breaking the opening stand and injecting life into the Indian camp. Just an over later, he removed Aiden Markram for 31, this time forcing an outside edge that went straight to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant.
A moment of pure magic from Jasprit Bumrah! 💙
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 14, 2025
One cracking delivery, one stunned batter and India strike early with a big breakthrough. 👊🇮🇳#INDvSA 1st Test LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/uK1oWLgsfx pic.twitter.com/j29zBV39Z6
The two back-to-back breakthroughs put South Africa under immediate pressure, and the visitors never fully recovered.
Also see: India vs South Africa 1st Test Live Streaming
Historic Record — Bumrah Surpasses R Ashwin
With Rickelton’s dismissal, Bumrah created history by becoming India’s third-highest wicket-taker via ‘bowled’ dismissals in international cricket.
He now has:
- 152 bowled wickets, surpassing Ravichandran Ashwin’s 151.
The only two bowlers ahead of him in this elite list are:
- Anil Kumble – 186 bowled wickets
- Kapil Dev – 167 bowled wickets
Given Bumrah’s current form and fitness, overtaking both legends in the coming years is a realistic possibility.
Kuldeep Joins the Party as South Africa Collapse
Following Bumrah’s double strike, captain Shubman Gill introduced Kuldeep Yadav, and the left-arm spinner made an immediate impact. Kuldeep dismissed South African captain Temba Bavuma for just 3, reducing the visitors to 71/3 despite their bright start.
From 57/0 to 71/3, South Africa’s innings spiraled quickly under India’s disciplined bowling attack. Bumrah finished the session with exceptional figures, while Kuldeep and the rest of the unit maintained tight lines to build pressure.
India in Control After Strong Bowling Display
By lunch, South Africa had reached 105/3, but the momentum clearly belonged to India. Bumrah’s historic spell not only shifted the game but also added another milestone to his remarkable Test legacy.
As the match progresses, all eyes will remain on Bumrah—India’s modern-day bowling giant—who continues to break records and deliver when it matters most.
