India will have to make history to win their ongoing Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. To take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, they need to bowl out 124, which would be the most successful run-chase at the venue. The record is currently held by India, who overhauled 117 in November 2004.
The chase in Calcutta is notoriously difficult; since 1934, only five teams have successfully reached their goal in 30 attempts. India will need their best to finish on the winning side and ensure they beat the reigning world champions.
India vs. South Africa 1st Test Update on 3
Most successful run-chase in Tests at Eden Gardens
- India vs. South Africa, target: 117 – November 2004
- India vs. England, goal: 79 – January 1993
- England vs. India, target: 41 – December 2012
- Australia vs. India, target: 39 – December 1969
- England vs India, Goal: 16-Jan-1977
INDIA UP
India started the test match brilliantly and the proteas were bowled out for 159 at the back Five wickets by Jasprit Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav also picked up two wickets each. After that, India took a slim lead of 30 runs after KL Rahul’s 39 and cameos from Washington Sundar, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja.
India then bowled out South Africa for 153 in 54 overs with Ravindra Jadeja claiming four wickets. For the Proteas, Temba Bavuma showed courage and became the first batsman in the Kolkata Test to score a half-century. His 55 off 136 balls lifted South Africa to a respectable total after they slumped to 71 for seven in 34 overs.
India are currently third in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 table with 52 points and a run percentage of 61.90, earned with four wins in seven matches. Australia sits at the top, followed by Sri Lanka.
India enter the South Africa series after drawing 2-2 in England and are eager to make amends after failing to qualify for the WTC finals in the previous cycle.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
November 16, 2025
