Follow Us15 years, that’s how long South Africa had to wait for a win in India.
It never seemed like South Africa were going to win the first Test against India, after they were bowled out for a meagre 159 on day one. However, if the last year has taught us anything, it is never to rule South Africa out.
Temba Bavuma’s men completed a historic 30-run win against India at the Eden Gardens, breaking a 15-year-old drought in the country. South Africa were always on the back foot, and India’s win seemed a mere formality when they reduced the Proteas to 91/7 in the second innings.
But that’s where Bavuma scripted a sensational 44-run partnership with Corbin Bosch, which helped the visitors get 153 runs on the board on a surface that seemed extremely tough for stroke-making. India’s recent history in run chases always put them on the back foot, but the hosts were still favourites having to chase 124 in the second innings.
However, that’s when Simon Harmer ended India’s hopes single-handedly, dismissing the middle-order batters – Dhruv Jurel, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja – to put South Africa within touching distance of a win.
The off-spinner then returned to dismiss Kuldeep Yadav to make things very easy for the visitors, and also achieved an all-time Proteas record. Harmer now has the most wickets for a South African spinner in India, surpassing the legendary Paul Adams, handing India their first defeat at home against the Proteas in 15 years.
Most Wickets for a South African spinner in India
18 - Simon Harmer*
14 - Paul Adams
14 - Imran Tahir
13 - Paul Harris