IND vs SA [WATCH]: Mohammed Siraj splits Simon Harmer’s off-stump in half with a dream delivery on Day 3 of first Test

India’s fiery pacer Mohammed Siraj produced one of the moments of the match on Day 3 of the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens, sending Simon Harmer’s off stump flying — quite literally into two pieces — with a sensational in-ducker that left fans and commentators stunned.

Mohammed Siraj cleans up Simon Harmer with a beauty

In a gripping passage of play during the morning session, Siraj delivered a delivery that will be replayed for years. Harmer misjudged the line completely, opting to shoulder arms, only to watch his off-stump get split cleanly into two. The dismissal came at a crucial moment as South Africa were mounting a mini fightback, and Siraj’s brilliance ensured India regained full control of the Test.

The moment arrived on the third ball of the 54th over. Siraj, who had been probing relentlessly around the off-stump channel, angled one in sharply. The ball straightened off the deck and seamed back just enough to beat Harmer’s judgment. Expecting the delivery to hold its line, the Proteas batter let it go, only to realise — far too late — that the ball was homing in.

The next second, the off-stump was smashed into two pieces, lying on the ground in a dramatic heap. Siraj let out a roar as the Indian fielders rushed toward him, celebrating a moment of pure fast-bowling excellence.

Here’s the video:

You just can’t keep him out of the game! 🔥 gets the 9th wicket for ! 🙌👊 | 1st Test, Day 3, LIVE NOW 👉

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia)

South Africa’s fightback led by Temba Bavuma

Before Siraj’s breathtaking delivery stole the headlines, South Africa resumed their innings at 91/7 and showed admirable resilience. Skipper Temba Bavuma played a determined knock, bringing up a fighting half-century under pressure. His composure helped stabilise the innings at a time when India were pushing hard for quick breakthroughs.

Bavuma stitched a valuable 44-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Corbin Bosch, frustrating the Indian bowlers with stout defence and calculated aggression. Their stand briefly threatened to take the game deeper than India would have liked.

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India regain control before welcoming a shaky start in their chase

However, once the partnership was broken, India tightened their grip. The bowlers maintained discipline, hitting consistent lengths and preventing the Proteas from building further momentum. South Africa eventually folded for 153, giving India a chaseable target of 124 runs to take a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.

Chasing 124, India made a shaky start, losing two early wickets before lunch. At 10/2, the hosts found themselves under unexpected pressure, with the Proteas bowlers sensing an opportunity to claw back into the contest. Despite the modest target, India still need 114 runs to win, and the afternoon session is set up for a tense battle between India’s batting lineup and South Africa’s spirited attack.

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