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The first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata saw a brilliant display of cricket intelligence from Indian vice-captain and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, whose specific instructions to spinner Kuldeep Yadav led directly to the dismissal of South African captain Temba Bavuma next ball. Pant’s insightful handling of the situation, clearly recorded on the stump mic, contributed significantly to India’s early dominance.
IND vs SA: Rishabh Pant’s stump mic strategy leads to Temba Bavuma’s wicket on Day 1 of Kolkata Test
The incident occurred during the first session of Day 1, immediately following a strong start by the Indian pace attack. With Kuldeep bowling, vice-captain Pant set the field and provided key tactical advice aimed specifically at neutralizing the dangerous Temba Bavuma, a batter known for wearing down bowlers.
Pant’s words, captured by the stump mic, warned Kuldeep about Bavuma’s preferred scoring shot and the exact spot where he could be caught. Pant told Kuldeep that Bavuma is prone to playing the sweep shot and would likely “get caught at leg side.” He specifically instructed the fielders on the leg side to be prepared for the chance.
Shortly after this specific tip, Kuldeep delivered a spin that Bavuma attempted to play off his pads. The ball clipped the inside edge of his bat and flew directly to Dhruv Jurel, who was positioned at leg slip, resulting in a clean catch. The quick dismissal of the South African captain, known for his ability to tire bowlers, was credited entirely to Pant’s intelligence and ability to read the batter.
Here’s the video:
Rishabh Pant is back in Tests and so is the comedy, and clutch advice that only he can deliver! 😄🔥
From firing up bowlers to mic-drop one-liners on the stump mic, the man is already serving Rishabh Panti. 🎙️💙 1st Test LIVE NOW 👉
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia)
Rishabh Pant 💯
— Aman (@Amanriz78249871)
IND vs SA: South Africa recover after early losses against Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav
South Africa opted to bat first after winning the toss in Kolkata, but their innings has been a rollercoaster ride so far. Having lost three wickets before lunch, they have managed to stabilize somewhat, reaching 105/3 by the break. Despite losing two key wickets in quick succession, the middle order has shown resilience with Wiaan Mulder (22*) and Tony de Zorzi (16*) holding firm after the fall of Temba Bavuma, who was dismissed for a mere 3 runs.
Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep have been the standout bowlers for India, taking the wickets of Ryan Rickelton (23) and Aiden Markram (31) respectively. Both bowlers have looked sharp, with Bumrah delivering a devastating spell and Kuldeep breaking through just when South Africa seemed to be getting some stability. The Indian bowlers have put the pressure on South Africa but Mulder and de Zorzi will look to rebuild after the early setbacks as South Africa moves towards the second session.
