India's batsmen received a hard dose of reality when South Africa's spin expert Simon Harmer dismantled the home side on a difficult pitch at Eden Gardens, resulting in India's defeat by 30 runs in the first Test on Sunday. To back up a feeble target of 124, South Africa has once again revealed the weaknesses of India on turning tracks.
Composure and decision-making that were conspicuously absent on the Indian side were qualities that the South African captain, Temba Bavuma had in abundance during the whole day. The hosts got out for 93 in a mere 35 overs, as they were short of patience and application in the pursuit of the target.
India slip in WTC standings after Eden Gardens defeat
This loss adds to India's growing concerns on home turners marking their fourth defeat in six home Tests, including last year’s 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand. South Africa’s commanding win in Kolkata has propelled them to second place on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 points table with an impressive 66.67%.
India, meanwhile, has slipped from third to fourth place, their PCT% dropping to 54.17. Reigning WTC champions Australia continue to dominate the standings with a perfect 100% after three wins, while Sri Lanka sit alongside South Africa in joint second place with 66.67%.
| Rank | Teams | Matches | Wins | Losses | Draw | Points | PCT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Australia | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 36 | 100 |
| 2. | South Africa | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 24 | 66.67 |
| 3. | Sri Lanka | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 16 | 66.67 |
| 4. | India | 8 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 52 | 54.17 |
| 5. | Pakistan | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 12 | 50.00 |
| 6. | England | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 26 | 43.33 |
| 7. | Bangladesh | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 16.67 |
| 8. | West Indies | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 9. | New Zealand | Yet to play |
