The first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, presents a challenging scenario for batters as Day 3 unfolds. South African batsmen Temba Bavuma and Corbin Bosch have returned to the pitch, aiming to extend their second innings beyond the 100-run mark. The Proteas faced a rocky outing the previous day, concluding at 93/7 after 35 overs, leading by a mere 63 runs. The unpredictable pitch has posed difficulties for the batters, exhibiting inconsistent bounce that has raised challenges for pace bowlers. In contrast, spinners have enjoyed substantial assistance with ample turn and effective bounce.

India’s batting began on Day 2 with a score of 37/1, as KL Rahul and Washington Sundar made notable contributions, moving the score to 75 runs before Simon Harmer's introduction to the bowling attack changed the momentum. He quickly dismantled India’s top order, dismissing Sundar with his first delivery followed by Rahul soon after for a top score of 39, highlighting the challenging conditions for batters.

Bavuma has emerged as South Africa’s standout performer in the second innings, striving to bolster his team's total. Indian bowlers have been on point, with Ravindra Jadeja claiming four wickets and Kuldeep Yadav contributing two crucial wickets of his own. Axar Patel, reflecting on the game conditions, emphasized the critical balance of playing an aggressive style while maintaining patience. He suggested that keeping South Africa’s total below 125 runs could present India with a manageable chase. With both teams battling it out, the remaining hours of play promise to reveal who will seize control in this intense contest.