India Faces Crisis at 10-3 Chasing 124 After Gill’s Hospitalization

UPDATE: India is in a perilous position at 10-3 as they chase 124 runs for victory against South Africa in the first cricket test at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens. The situation worsened after captain Shubman Gill was hospitalized due to a neck spasm and will take no further part in the match.

As of lunch on day three, India needs another 114 runs with Washington Sundar (5 not out) and Dhruv Jurel (4 not out) at the crease. South Africa’s Marco Jansen made quick work of India’s top order, capturing both openers in a brief seven-over session before lunch. Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed for a duck, while Lokesh Rahul fell for just one run.

South Africa was bowled out for 153 runs in their second innings, adding crucial runs to their overnight score of 93-7. Skipper Temba Bavuma shone with a resilient 55 not out off 136 balls, helping South Africa set a challenging target. His partnership with Corbin Bosch for the eighth wicket was vital, frustrating Indian bowlers as they added 44 runs together.

The urgency of the situation is palpable as India struggles to maintain composure in this high-stakes match. Earlier, in a chaotic day two, 15 wickets fell, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the test. India had posted 189 runs in response to South Africa’s first innings score of 159.

This test marks the first match at Eden Gardens since 2019, and South Africa is seeking to break a 15-year winless streak on Indian soil. The second test is scheduled to commence in Guwahati on November 22.

As the match unfolds, all eyes are on India to see if they can recover from this alarming start and secure a win against South Africa. Fans and cricket enthusiasts alike are anxiously awaiting the next developments in this gripping showdown.