India's cricket team faces a stern test of character as they confront a potentially series-defining situation against South Africa. After a string of underwhelming performances, particularly in the ongoing second Test in Guwahati, the team finds itself under immense pressure. As the shadows of defeat loom, the side may need to draw inspiration from a historic, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, rearguard action from their opponents, South Africa, in Delhi back in 2015.
The current predicament is stark. India, trailing in the series, has been criticized for poor batting displays and questionable team selections. Former captain Kris Srikkanth has openly questioned the team's performance, especially the batting unit's inability to perform on a good batting surface in Guwahati after struggling on a turning track in the first Test. Social media is abuzz with questions, and even the humorous Iceland Cricket handle has taken a dig at head coach Gautam Gambhir.
In stark contrast, flashbacks to December 2015 may offer a glimmer of hope. India had set South Africa a daunting target of 481 in the fourth Test at Delhi's Feroz Shah Kotla. What followed was an exhibition of resilience from Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers. Amla, known for his attacking strokeplay in ODIs, and de Villiers, famed for his innovative and aggressive batting, adopted an ultra-defensive approach.
Amla's innings was an epitome of patience, scoring 25 runs off 244 balls, the slowest ever in Test cricket for a batsman facing at least 200 deliveries. De Villiers, equally determined, contributed 43 off 297 balls. Together, they forged a partnership with a run rate of just 0.64, the lowest in Test history for a stand of at least 100 balls. Their 27 runs together came off 253 balls. The duo defied the Indian bowlers for 90 overs, showcasing extraordinary concentration and resolve.
While South Africa ultimately lost the match and the series 3-0, their defiance in Delhi became a symbol of grit and determination. The match saw South Africa score 143 runs in 143.1 overs. The significance of the match was that India could compete with the best in the world even on a level playing field. The visitors played 72 overs in their second innings and only scored 72 runs.
For the current Indian team, the situation demands a similar level of resolve. Facing a significant series deficit, the batsmen need to display greater application and resilience. The team's body language has been a concern, and a positive mindset is crucial to mount a comeback. As former captain Rohit Sharma noted, the Indian cricket team is always under pressure, and the key is to maintain calmness and focus on the present.
The memory of Amla and de Villiers' defiance in Delhi could serve as a valuable lesson. It highlights the importance of adapting to the situation, displaying unwavering determination, and fighting until the very end. While the task ahead is challenging, India can draw strength from past examples of resilience and aim to turn the tide. The team needs to dig deep, rediscover its fighting spirit, and replicate the tenacity shown by South Africa in Delhi, even if it ultimately ended in defeat.
