### Cricket-Betting Scandal Rocks First Test Between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens
A major cricket-betting case has cast a shadow over the first Test between India and South Africa at the iconic Eden Gardens. Officers from the Detective Department (DD) and Anti-Rowdy Squad (ARS) of Kolkata Police sprang into action, arresting three men for their involvement in illegal betting activities during the match.
#### Police Crackdown on Illegal Betting
Acting on a tip-off received on Saturday, Kolkata Police teams tracked down and apprehended three suspects from the F1 block of Eden Gardens. The arrested individuals were reportedly engaged in illegal betting via mobile apps such as br365, R777, and 1xBook, among others. Despite the arrests, officials noted that a few others managed to escape during the operation.
The arrested men have been identified as Altaf Khan (26) from Yavatmal, Maharashtra; Ankush Raj (22) from Bihar; and Patel Pinkal Kumar (39) from Unjha, Gujarat. Notably, none of the accused are residents of West Bengal.
#### Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
A senior officer from the Kolkata Police, quoted by Sportstar, stated:
“All three detained persons were thoroughly checked. Some incriminating transactions could be found on their mobile phones. The phones were seized after screenshots of such transactions were obtained. Further investigation is underway.”
The case has been registered at the Maidan Police Station under Sections 61(2)/318(4) of the Gambling Prize Competition Act.
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### Team India Under Pressure After Shocking Loss
Amidst the betting controversy, Team India failed to meet fans’ expectations at the Eden Gardens, which was hosting a Test match after six years. The hosts were unable to chase a modest 123-run target in the fourth innings, handing South Africa a remarkable comeback victory.
South Africa, who were under pressure coming into Day 3, bounced back thanks to a gritty 55* off 136 deliveries from captain Temba Bavuma. Contributions from Marco Jansen (13) and Corbin Bosch (25) helped set a challenging 124-run target on a tricky surface.
Off-spinner Simon Harmer was the star for the visitors, weaving a web around the Indian batters. Harmer claimed four wickets in the final innings and eight in the match, leading the Proteas to a stunning 30-run win.
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### Series Moves to Guwahati
With a 1-0 deficit in the two-match series, Team India will now head to Guwahati looking to bounce back and level the series against a resurgent South African side.
Stay tuned for more updates and expert analysis on this developing story.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-three-people-arrested-eden-gardens-connection-betting-racket-ind-vs-sa-2025-1st-test-reports