Kolkata, India - Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, and Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, are facing intense scrutiny following India's unexpected 30-run defeat against South Africa in the first Test match at Eden Gardens. The loss has exposed what critics are calling "deep-rooted" problems within the team, particularly concerning unclear selection strategies and an over-reliance on tactical decisions that have backfired.
The defeat was particularly stinging as India failed to chase a modest target of 124, collapsing to a mere 93 in their second innings. This marks the first time since 1997 that India has failed to chase a target below 125 in a Test match on home soil. The turning pitch at Eden Gardens, which offered variable bounce from the start, also became a major point of contention.
Former Indian cricketers and analysts have voiced their concerns over the team's performance and the decisions leading up to it. Venkatesh Prasad, a former India pacer, didn't mince words, asserting that India can no longer consider themselves a top Test side given their recent planning and execution. He criticized the selections, pointing out the ambiguity in the team's composition and the excessive tactical approach. Prasad highlighted the team's inconsistent performance in Test cricket over the past year, except for a drawn series in England.
Adding to the criticism, the team's choice to include four all-rounders and field Washington Sundar at No. 3, instead of Sai Sudharsan, has been questioned. Mohammad Kaif, another former Indian cricketer, expressed his bewilderment at dropping Sai Sudharsan, especially after his impressive 87 in the previous Test innings. He also highlighted the confusing signals being sent by the team management, especially considering Shubman Gill's appointment as captain to focus on the future.
Adding fuel to the fire, Gautam Gambhir's post-match comments about the pitch have drawn criticism. Gambhir stated that the team got the pitch they wanted and that it wasn't unplayable, pointing to Temba Bavuma's half-century and Washington Sundar's innings as validation. However, this has been viewed by some as an attempt to deflect blame from the team's poor batting performance. Critics argue that requesting such a dry pitch backfired, playing into the hands of South Africa's spin attack.
The pressure is now on Gambhir and Agarkar to address these concerns and make necessary adjustments before the second Test, which has become a must-win for India to stay alive in the series and keep their World Test Championship hopes intact. The second Test will be held in Guwahati on November 22, 2025. The team's ability to learn from their mistakes, exhibit greater clarity in their selections, and formulate a more robust strategy will be crucial in determining their success in the upcoming match and beyond.
