Washington Sundar, promoted to the Indian middle order, delivered a gritty knock even as the rest of the batting lineup crumbled in a shocking collapse. Despite his determined effort, India suffered a humiliating defeat in the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata, leaving the young all-rounder in tears inside the dressing room.

Chasing just 124 runs on a turning Eden Gardens surface, India had plenty of time left in the match — nearly 250 overs — but failed miserably as the batting order fell apart like a house of cards. For a team that has reached the World Test Championship final twice, losing such a modest chase at home was unimaginable.

With the top order collapsing again, Sundar—promoted to bat at No. 3—held firm and tried to steady the innings. He became India’s sixth wicket

See Full Page