India suffered a shocking 30-run defeat in the Kolkata Test after losing their last six wickets for just 20 runs.
Team India suffered a shocking batting collapse in the second Test against South Africa, getting bowled out for just 93 runs while chasing a target of 124. This marks India’s first failure to chase a sub-125 total in 28 years, turning what looked like a comfortable run chase into a stunning 30-run defeat.
India’s Batting Crumbles Under Pressure
Despite starting the chase with confidence, India lost wickets at regular intervals once the South African bowlers found rhythm and movement off the pitch. The middle order struggled to build partnerships, and the lower order offered little resistance.
- India’s last six wickets fell for just 20 runs
- No Indian batsman managed to cross a significant score
- South Africa’s disciplined bowling exposed India’s weaknesses in tough conditions
The atmosphere at Eden Gardens shifted dramatically as the collapse unfolded, leaving the home crowd in disbelief.
South Africa’s Bowlers Seal the Upset
South Africa’s pace attack stuck to tight lines and used the pitch effectively. Their bowlers maintained constant pressure, forcing errors from Indian batters. The disciplined effort ensured a memorable comeback victory, even after a modest first-innings total.
Historic Low for India
This collapse is India’s lowest run chase failure in nearly three decades. Their last unsuccessful chase of a target below 125 came in 1997.
The loss also raises questions about India’s composure in crunch situations, especially when batting on deteriorating surfaces.
What This Means For The Series
The defeat puts India on the back foot as the series progresses. With momentum now shifting towards South Africa, India will need to reassess their approach—particularly their middle-order stability and shot selection under pressure.
