Team India lost the first Test series at home after 12 years. Can Gautam Gambhir turn the things around ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
The India cricket team's reign of dominance on home soil has come to a surprising halt, after a series defeat against New Zealand, a team that until recently, had struggled in Asian conditions. After facing defeat in the first Test at Bengaluru, India faced another setback in Pune, losing the second Test in less than three days. This defeat raises critical questions about the team’s form, particularly its senior players, and the overall strategy moving forward by coach Gautam Gambhir.
A historic loss
India last experienced a home Test series defeat in 2012 against England, when they lost 2-1 in a four-match series. However, the context of that series was significantly different. India's performances were markedly stronger compared to what we witnessed in the recent encounters with New Zealand. A nation that had just suffered a 2-0 series loss to Sri Lanka, New Zealand's unexpected triumph in India adds another chapter to cricket's unpredictable narrative.
Going into the series, India was expected to solidify their position in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 standings. Instead, the loss against the Kiwis has not only derailed India’s momentum but also raised alarms regarding the team’s consistency and mental fortitude in the face of adversity.
The struggles of senior players
The India squad, traditionally reliant on their senior stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, witnessed a concerning dip in form from their leading players. Rohit’s performance has been underwhelming, with scores of 6, 5, 23, and 8 against Bangladesh, followed by a disappointing 2, 52, 0, and 8 against New Zealand. The fact that he has recorded six scores of ten or less in his last eight innings is alarming for a player of his calibre.
Similarly, Kohli's form has been a cause for concern. Apart from a solitary innings of 70, his performance has been lacklustre, highlighted by his dismissal outing against Mitchell Santner in Pune, where he was bowled off a full toss. Since 2021, Kohli has struggled against spin in Asia, having been dismissed 22 times by spinners in this region. His recent form—five scores of 20 or less in his last eight innings—suggest an urgent need for self-reflection and adjustment.
Both players must reassess their strategies, possibly returning to domestic cricket to regain form and confidence. After the Bangladesh series, participating in the Irani Cup would have provided them with invaluable match practice.
Bowling woes: Ashwin and Jadeja struggle
In addition to the batting failures, India’s bowlers have also come under scrutiny. Ravichandran Ashwin, usually a linchpin of India’s bowling attack, has averaged 43.50 runs per wicket against New Zealand. His inability to contain the opposition has been striking. In 67 overs, he conceded 261 runs, with only five maidens. Ravindra Jadeja has faced challenges too, claiming just six wickets at an average of 37.50. Their struggles to adapt to the conditions have added further strain to the team’s overall performance.
It’s worth noting that if not for all-rounder Washington Sundar's efforts, India could have faced an even more substantial defeat in Pune. His contributions underscore the importance of finding reliable performers across the line-up, especially during tough phases of the match.
Expert critiques and team reflection
The fallout from this series defeat has prompted reactions from cricketing experts. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan emphasised the need for senior players to step up, stating that there’s ‘a lot to reflect on’ for the team. He noted that New Zealand’s victory is a wake-up call, particularly as it marks the end of India’s incredible run of 18 consecutive home series wins.
Pathan's sentiments resonate widely; the onus is on the seasoned players to deliver in crucial situations. The next few months will be vital, with significant tournaments looming on the horizon.
Gambhir faces the heat
Gautam Gambhir, who took on the mantle of coaching the team, is now under considerable scrutiny following these disappointing performances. In the lead-up to the series against New Zealand, he spoke about the need for the team to be versatile—capable of scoring 400 runs in a day or defending for two days. However, the reality of the team's recent performance starkly contrasts with his aspirations.
Gambhir's tenure has already seen India lose an ODI series against Sri Lanka, something that hadn’t occurred in 27 years. And now under his guidance, the team has faced their first home Test series loss in over a decade. His ability to steer the ship through these turbulent waters is being closely watched.
Path forward
While it may be premature to call for Gambhir's departure, it is clear that he must address the team’s shortcomings. A balanced playing XI is crucial; one that blends experienced players with younger talent while ensuring that there is a solid mix of batters and bowlers. Over-relying on all-rounders may not be the best strategy in Test cricket.
Gambhir also needs to inject energy into the squad, particularly after the disheartening display in Pune. The intent displayed during the first Test was noticeably absent in the second, raising concerns about the team’s mentality and focus. Beyond established players, he should consider integrating promising young cricketers from domestic leagues who have shown consistent performance.
There is also a case for bringing back experienced players like Cheteshwar Pujara, whose style and current form could offer stability to a faltering batting line-up. The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy presents Gambhir with a crucial opportunity to recalibrate the team and assert their dominance.
A time for reflection and renewal
The recent series loss against New Zealand has served as a significant wake-up call for the India cricket team. As they regroup and prepare for future challenges, both players and management must engage in earnest reflection. With the ICC World Test Championship and other critical series on the horizon, the focus should be on building a resilient team capable of overcoming adversity.
Gambhir has a challenging road ahead, reminiscent of his playing days when he rose to the occasion against formidable opponents. Can he channel that fighting spirit to reinvigorate the team? The answer will reveal itself in the coming months as the team embarks on its next chapter.
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