Mumbai, November 17: Former South African cricketers AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Dale Steyn expressed delight after South Africa's historic Test win over India at Eden Gardens in the first match of the ongoing series. On the other hand, England legend Kevin Pietersen attributed the batting collapses by both teams to the "modern day game." IND vs SA 2nd Test 2025: Shubman Gill Discharged From Hospital After Neck Spasm; Doubtful for Guwahati Match.

South Africa claimed their first Test victory on Indian soil since 2010, defeating the hosts by 30 runs in the opening match of the two-Test series on Sunday. The match concluded on the third day as India failed to reach the 124-run target set by South Africa on a pitch where the highest individual score in the entire match was just 55, by Temba Bavuma. Former South African cricketers AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Dale Steyn took to X and expressed joy over South Africa's historic victory.

AB de Villiers Lauds South Africa Cricket Team

Faf Du Plessis Hails South Africa Cricket Team

Dale Steyn Lauds South Africa Cricket Team

Meanwhile, Pietersen launched a rant against modern-day cricket players after India struggled with their defensive skills and were dismissed for just 93 while chasing 124.

Kevin Pietersen Talks About Modern Cricket

Pietersen argued that modern cricket prioritises entertainment and financial gain over traditional skills, such as survival and playing spin. He acknowledged that players are just following the system, encouraged them to earn as much as possible, and criticised the silence around the influence of money in the game. South Africa Beat India By 30 Runs in IND vs SA 1st Test 2025: Simon Harmer, Bowlers Shine As Proteas Gain 1-0 Unassailable Series Lead Over Men in Blue.

"The player is not to blame at all as it is exactly where the modern day game is. The priority right now in the game isn't about survival or the art of playing a spinning ball. The game of cricket is now about bright lights, loud music and a financial return for cricket boards, private equity and private ownership," said the former England batter in the X post.

"The elephant in the room is it won't be mentioned cos you just can't talk about money. But, I will, as it is real. I wish more power to the players to make as much $$$$ as they can, whilst they can. You're just doing what decision makers are doing but you're just not allowed to talk about it! Keep hitting sixes and switch-hits and growing your bank accounts, dudes," Pietersen concluded.

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)

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