Akash Chopra Questions Sai Omission as Bumrah Shines in Kolkata Test

Akash Chopra Criticizes Team Selection

Former Indian cricketer Akash Chopra has voiced his disagreement over the exclusion of Sai from India’s playing XI for the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata. Writing on X, Chopra remarked, “Sai should’ve played in this Test. India will be under-bowling at least one, if not two, bowlers in this match.” His comments highlight concerns regarding India’s bowling depth in the opening encounter.

Bumrah Sparks Indian Comeback

In the morning session at Eden Gardens, Jasprit Bumrah showcased his class, claiming two crucial wickets while conceding only nine runs. His performance played a key role in slowing down South Africa’s strong start, giving India a chance to regain control.

Shubman Gill Discusses Bowling Strategy

Team India captain Shubman Gill addressed the media in a press conference, providing insights into India’s bowling strategy for the first Test. Gill emphasized a balanced approach aimed at leveraging India’s pace and spin resources to challenge South Africa’s batting lineup.

South Africa’s Solid Opening Stand

After winning the toss, South Africa opted to bat and began aggressively, scoring 57 runs without loss in the first hour. By the end of the opening session, they were 105-3 after 27 overs. Wiaan Mulder and Tony de Zorzi remained unbeaten at the break, contributing 22 and 15 runs respectively.

Early Wickets Shake the Visitors

Indian bowlers struck back as the visitors’ position weakened from 57-0 to 71-3 in just 5.3 overs. Despite the early setback, Mulder and de Zorzi steadied the innings with a 34-run partnership off 66 balls, providing South Africa with some stability.

Changes in South Africa’s Lineup

South Africa made tactical changes to their squad, with Kagiso Rabada sitting out due to a rib injury. Corbin Bosch replaced him in the lineup, and the team included two spinners, Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, to adapt to the Eden Gardens conditions.

Historical Context and Venue Highlights

The Proteas have not won a Test in India since 2015, and their last series victory in the country dates back to 2000-01 under Hansie Cronje. Eden Gardens in Kolkata is hosting its first Test since the 2019 day-night clash between India and Bangladesh. The second Test will take place at Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium from November 22, marking the venue’s debut in men’s Test cricket after hosting several Women’s World Cup matches in 2025.

Recent Form of India and South Africa

India enters the series on the back of a 2-0 series win against West Indies, with Yadav taking 12 wickets. South Africa, meanwhile, drew their recent two-Test series 1-1 against Pakistan, adding intrigue to the upcoming matches in India.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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