Harmer, Jansen Spark South Africa Fightback as India Dismissed for 189

South Africa mounted a strong comeback on the second day of the first Test at Eden Gardens as Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer combined to bowl out India for 189, restricting the hosts to a slender 30-run first-innings lead.

Starting from their overnight 37 for 1, India struggled on a tricky surface that offered sharp turn and uneven bounce. Off-spinner Simon Harmer produced a decisive spell, finishing with 4 for 30, while left-arm pacer Marco Jansen backed him up with 3 for 35, dismantling India’s middle order.

Among the Indian batters, KL Rahul top-scored with a gritty 39, but lacked substantial support. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with 27 each, but their dismissals triggered further collapse as South Africa maintained tight control.

The visitors, who were under pressure after India gained a narrow lead, will now look to build a strong second-innings total to seize command of the match. The Test remains finely poised on a surface expected to deteriorate further.