Following India's 2-0 Test series defeat against South Africa, head coach Gautam Gambhir has called for a re-evaluation of priorities within Indian cricket, emphasizing the importance of Test cricket. The series concluded with a significant 408-run loss in the second Test in Guwahati, marking India's first home Test series loss since 2012 and their second whitewash under Gambhir.
Gambhir addressed the press, acknowledging the team's shortcomings and the need for players to take responsibility. He stated that accountability and understanding the game situation are crucial aspects that cannot be taught, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the team's needs above individual performances. He noted the batting collapse in the first innings of the second Test, where the team went from 95 for 1 to 122 for 7, as unacceptable.
Despite the recent setback, Gambhir also highlighted India's successes during his tenure, including their performance in England, as well as winning the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup. He urged people not to forget these achievements, particularly in light of the focus on the recent series loss and the previous whitewash against New Zealand.
Gambhir pointed out the inexperience within the current Test team, especially with the recent retirements of key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin. He stated that several batters in the top order have played fewer than 15 Test matches each, indicating a period of learning and growth for the team. He asked for patience and time for the team to develop consistency and adapt to pressure situations.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Devajit Saikia, defended Gambhir, emphasizing the need for players to adapt to varying conditions. Saikia drew comparisons to past Indian legends like Dilip Vengsarkar and Sunil Gavaskar, who adjusted their techniques based on different playing environments. He echoed Gambhir's sentiment about the team being in a transition phase and urged fans and stakeholders to allow the team time to reclaim its position as the number one Test team. Saikia also stated that the BCCI would stick to its long-term plans and avoid knee-jerk reactions based on short-term results.
Meanwhile, after Gambhir's statement that the BCCI would decide his future, Delhi Capitals co-owner called for a specialist red-ball coach.
In contrast to his emphasis on Test cricket, Gambhir also acknowledged the importance of white-ball formats. However, he cautioned against players neglecting their red-ball skills and performances based on success in white-ball cricket. He stressed that Test cricket requires tough characters with resilience, irrespective of conditions or situations.
