New Delhi: India’s preference for sharply turning pitches came under renewed criticism after a 30-run loss to South Africa in Kolkata, a match that ended inside three days despite the team receiving the surface they had requested. The result has sparked concerns about strategy, preparation and the long-term impact of such pitches on the quality of Test cricket.
The Eden Gardens surface offered uneven bounce from the opening day and deteriorated rapidly, leading to 38 wickets falling in eight sessions. Spinners claimed the bulk of the dismissals, yet India failed to capitalise even with a 30-run first-innings lead. Head coach Gautam Gambhir maintained that the pitch was not to blame, insisting that it tested technique, concentration and resilience rather than being unplayable. He stressed that a score of around 124 was within reach had the batters shown greater discipline.
Despite these claims, the loss has renewed questions about whether India’s approach is undermining their own strengths. Their attack features formidable match-winners in Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja, supported by Washington Sundar and Axar Patel. South Africa entered the contest without their leading fast bowler and fielded a comparatively inexperienced lineup, yet adapted better to the surface.
Former players have also voiced concern. Harbhajan Singh criticised the quality of recent Test pitches in India, arguing that excessive turn and variable bounce reduce contests to unpredictable battles where even the most accomplished batters would struggle. He questioned whether such conditions reflect the essence of Test cricket and warned that they diminish the viewing experience.
Sourav Ganguly acknowledged that the pitch was below ideal standards and confirmed that instructions for such a surface came from the team management. While praising Gambhir’s contributions as a coach, he urged him to place greater trust in India’s established fast bowlers and aim for contests that stretch the full five days.
As India head to Guwahati for the second Test, a key decision awaits: whether to persist with extreme turn or return to more balanced pitches that promote competitive cricket and allow the team’s strengths to shine.
