- By Namrata Vijay
- Sun, 16 Nov 2025 06:13 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
IND vs SA 1st Test: Gautam Gambhir, who is the head coach of the Indian cricket team, has been at the receiving end of the fans after their embarrassing loss against South Africa in Kolkata. The host couldn't chase the target of 124 runs on the third day to win this match and lead the series by 1-0.
The Indian batters were seen struggling against Simon Harmer and Marco Jansen on a tricky pitch. The pitch in Kolkata has grabbed everyone's attention since the second when 15 wickets were taken.
Even though a lot of people had criticised the pitch, Gautam Gambhir defended the team management's approach and revealed that it was the same pitch that they had asked for, but the batters still had a hard time adjusting.
Also Read: IND vs SA 1st Test: Jasprit Bumrah Clears Air With Temba Bavuma After 'Bauna' Remark In Eden Gardens
"It was not an unplayable wicket. This (pitch) is exactly what we asked for, and this is what we got. The curator (Sujan Mukherjee) here was very supportive. I think it's a wicket that can judge your mental toughness, as those who played with good defence scored runs," Gambhir had told reporters in the post-match press conference.
He admitted that there was nothing wrong with the surface and that the seamers took most of the wickets.
"This is exactly the pitch we were looking for. There were no demons or unplayable. Axar, Temba, and Washington made runs. If you say this is a turning wicket, the majority of wickets were taken by seamers. We ask for the pitch to aid spinners from day one so that the toss doesn't become crucial. Had we won the Test, you wouldn't be asking or discussing so much about the pitch. We've got the guys to deliver in any condition," he said.
Also Read: Gautam Gambhir Provides Huge Update On Shubman Gill's Fitness Ahead Of 2nd Test, Says, 'He's Still...'
The Indian fans weren't happy with Gambhir's statements, as they are slamming him for the team's poor performances in Test cricket under his coaching. After playing in 18 Test matches under his guidance, the team has won seven, lost nine, and two matches have ended in a tie. Gambhir will now be under a lot of pressure when the team plays the second match, as they are on the verge of losing their second Test series in two years.
Here's how the fans reacted on social media:
