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The Proteas achieved a remarkable 30-run win against India at Eden Gardens on the third morning of the first Test on Sunday.

Keshav Maharaj took two wickets in a row to send India packing for 93. Earlier in the over, Maharaj conceded two sixes and a boundary, but he retaliated when Axar Patel (26) was brilliantly caught by Temba Bavuma, followed by Mohammed Siraj being taken at slip.

India’s captain Shubnam Gill is unable to bat as he is currently hospitalized for observation.

Simon Harmer was responsible for most of the damage, taking 4 wickets for 21 runs, putting the Proteas in a strong position to achieve a notable victory.

Marco Jansen also took two early wickets, forcing India into a difficult position.

Earlier, captain Bavuma displayed all the determination that has earned him respect as a leader, scoring a resilient 55 not out to take the Proteas to 153—a total lead of 123. The captain spent more than three hours in the middle and faced 136 balls.

It marked the foundation of the Proteas’ first win in India in 15 years, and their first triumph at Eden Gardens since 1996.

“A bit of nervousness [after conceding two sixes and a four]. I just wanted to make my intentions clear. Fortunately, I received the rewards; it was an excellent catch by Temba and we managed to come back,” said Maharaj.

The left-arm spinner expressed great admiration for his spin partner Harmer.

He was extraordinary, he demonstrated his expertise, and he showed why he has 1000 FC wickets. It’s an honor to bowl with him. Don’t take anything away from Marco Jansen either. What a team performance, there has been outstanding teamwork as well. Truly great determination to get going, and we succeeded.

Maharaj feels the Proteas’ performance in Pakistan before this tour prepared them for this win.

We gained significant confidence from that series. In India, it’s a different scenario; these players have unique abilities. Securing the first goal of this tour was remarkable.

There was a ball that strongly bore your name. Simon demonstrated more consistency than me. Also, a lot of credit is due to Temba for the faith he showed in us. We have not yet completed this [India] assignment. We want to move forward and we are really excited about what we have accomplished.

First Trial, Day 3, Midday Meal

South Africa: 159 and 153 (Bavuma 55*, Bosch 25, Jadeja 4/50, Sirag 2/2)

India: 189 and 93 all out (Patel 26, Washington 31, Harmer 4/21, Jansen 2/15)

South Africa wins by 30 runs, leading the series 1-0