Kuldeep Yadav provided an early breakthrough right after the lunch interval on Day 1, removing Wiaan Mulder during the opening Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens on Friday, November 14. Mulder attempted a reverse sweep but missed completely, getting trapped right in front. The right-hander walked back after scoring 24 off 51 deliveries, leaving the Proteas at 114/4.
The wicket fell in the 30th over of South Africa’s innings. Kuldeep delivered a legbreak targeting middle stump, and Mulder’s failed reverse sweep resulted in the ball striking his front pad. The on-field umpire gave him out instantly, though Mulder opted for a review after speaking with Tony de Zorzi.
The replay confirmed the ball was heading straight into middle stump, upholding the original decision. You can watch the video here:
https://www.bcci.tv/bccilink/videos/Io23ij6H
This was Kuldeep Yadav’s second breakthrough of the day, after he had earlier removed South African captain Temba Bavuma for just 3 in the morning session. Meanwhile, Wiaan Mulder’s poor run in Tests extended, marking his third straight low score after making 17 and 0 against Pakistan in the previous match last month. He did, however, register a massive unbeaten 367 against Zimbabwe back in July.
India Remain On Top As Kuldeep And Bumrah Strike Twice After Lunch
A disciplined bowling effort from Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah put India firmly in control against South Africa on Day 1 of the opening Test. Bumrah first broke the 57-run opening partnership by dismissing Ryan Rickelton for 23, then removed Aiden Markram for 31 with an edge to the keeper, and later trapped Tony de Zorzi lbw for 24.
Kuldeep Yadav also maintained his impressive form, following up on his 12-wicket haul against the West Indies in October. At the current stage of play, South Africa were struggling at 120/5 after 32.3 overs, with Kyle Verreynne and Tristan Stubbs trying to rebuild.
South Africa A had recently surprised India A by successfully chasing 147 in a practice match, but the senior Proteas side hasn’t beaten India in a Test since 2010. India dominated the last two home series against them, winning both 3-0 in 2015/16 and 2019/20, and South Africa haven’t claimed a Test series win on Indian soil since 1999/00.
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