A former prominent Indian fast bowler has delivered a harsh assessment of the Indian squad’s administration and selection committee following India’s surprising loss to South Africa during the initial Test match held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Despite maintaining a favorable position for much of the game, India experienced a significant collapse on Day 3, being dismissed for merely 93 runs while pursuing a target of 124. This outcome granted South Africa a 1-0 advantage in the two-match series and revealed substantial weaknesses in India’s long-form cricket approach under the present leadership.
Shubman Gill’s non-participation in the second innings, after he had to retire due to a neck injury sustained earlier, further complicated India’s situation. However, this particular event did not fully account for the broader concerns identified by the former Indian player — specifically, what he described as “perplexing selections” and an excessive reliance on immediate, short-sighted tactical decisions. Gill was admitted to a medical facility for observation, yet discussions regarding the team’s readiness and composition overshadowed concerns about his health.
Experienced Cricketer Raises Questions About the Strategies of Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar
In a forceful message shared on social media platforms, Venkatesh Prasad conveyed dissatisfaction regarding India’s recent showings in Test cricket, specifically highlighting head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar for what he perceived as a lack of clear strategic direction. He pointed out that while India has demonstrated impressive performance in limited-overs formats under Gambhir’s direction, its performance in Test matches presents a different picture.
“Choices made without clear reasoning, coupled with excessive tactical adjustments, are proving counterproductive. Our approach to Test cricket has been lacking in clear objectives,” Prasad commented, asserting that the management’s inconsistent selection decisions have contributed to instability within the team’s structure.
While we have been excellent in white- ball cricket.
We can’t call ourselves a top Test side with such planning.
Selections without clarity and over-tactical thinking are backfiring. Poor results over a year in tests barring a drawn series in England. . #IndvsSA— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) November 16, 2025
Since Gambhir assumed his role, India’s performance record in Test matches has been inconsistent, featuring defeats in Australia and South Africa, with a drawn series in England marking the only positive outcome. Critics have suggested that the frequent alterations in the batting lineup, ambiguous roles for middle-order batsmen, and the sporadic deployment of spin bowlers have adversely affected India’s overall stability. Prasad’s observations have reignited discussions about whether India’s focus on Test cricket has been diminished in pursuit of success in shorter formats.
South Africa’s Spin Bowlers Secure a Notable Victory Against India in the Kolkata Test
South Africa’s triumph was largely attributable to the excellent performance of their spin bowling team, featuring Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, who effectively exploited the deteriorating conditions of the Eden Gardens pitch. Harmer achieved bowling figures of 4-30 during India’s initial innings, followed by another four-wicket performance in the second innings, thus accumulating a total of eight wickets in the match. His dismissal of Rishabh Pant through a sharp catch-and-bowled action was a significant moment, disrupting India’s momentum during a crucial phase.
Keshav Maharaj further contributed with critical breakthroughs, taking two wickets in consecutive deliveries to eliminate India’s lower batting order, thereby securing the victory for the South African team. Earlier in the match, South African captain Temba Bavuma played an essential role, scoring an undefeated 55 runs to elevate his team from a score of 91-7 to a total of 153 all out, providing their bowling attack with a score to defend.
This loss has led to important discussions concerning India’s strategic direction in the longest format of the game. With the next Test approaching, there is increasing pressure on Gambhir and Agarkar to provide a clear and responsible response. As Prasad’s critique continues to circulate widely on social media, the team’s upcoming selections and strategies will face thorough assessment from both supporters and former players.
