IND vs SA: Who is to be blamed for the Eden Gardens pitch during the India vs South Africa 1st Test?

Head coach Gautam Gambhir did not hold back while analysing India’s 30-run loss to South Africa in the opening Test of the two-match series. India collapsed to 93 all out on the third day while chasing a modest target of 124 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, allowing the Proteas to take a 1-0 lead. Reflecting on the defeat, Gambhir stressed that such failures cannot be attributed solely to the conditions or the surface. Instead, he highlighted the importance of developing the right temperament, especially when batting on tracks that test a player’s technique and mental resilience.

Gautam Gambhir deserves to be blamed for the Eden Gardens pitch in the India vs South Africa 1st Test?

Gambhir noted that although the pitch offered its share of challenges, it was by no means unplayable. Several Indian batters, he suggested, were guilty of poor shot selection and an inability to adapt quickly to the demands of the situation. He emphasised that successful teams excel in adverse conditions by showing patience, discipline, and awareness, qualities he felt were lacking in this performance. According to him, blaming the pitch diverts attention from the real issues: the need for stronger decision-making, better application, and a willingness to grind out tough runs. He urged his players to learn from this setback and approach the next India vs South Africa Test with greater clarity and resolve.

“I felt 123 (124) was very much chaseable. You need the right temperament to score runs, this is what happens when you don’t play well. this is the pitch we asked for and this is what we got. You should know how to play spin. The majority of wickets were taken by pacers," Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir said at the post-match press conference.

"This is what we asked for and we are happy with what we got. This is exactly the pitch we were looking for. The curator was very helpful. If you don't play well, this is what happens. It wasn't an unplayable wicket. It was a wicket where your technique and temperament is tested. If you have solid defence, you can score on such wickets," he added.

The 44-year-old coach added that it is unproductive to compare performances across different eras when evaluating a specific set of matches. According to him, every generation of players faces unique conditions, challenges, and expectations, making such comparisons both unfair and unhelpful. Instead, he urged a focus on the current team’s growth, adaptability, and ability to respond to pressure.

Gambhir also shared a positive update on Rishabh Pant, expressing confidence in the wicketkeeper-batter’s progress. He noted that Pant has been working hard on both his fitness and technique after returning to competitive cricket, and that his natural flair and match-winning ability remain intact. Gambhir believes it is only a matter of time before Pant begins scoring consistently again, contributing significantly to the team’s middle order. He reassured fans that Pant’s form will improve as he gains more game time and rhythm in the upcoming matches.

"We shouldn't compare eras. This dressing room has young players. Test cricket requires mental toughness. It's not only about skill. I think tactically we were spot on. As regards Rishabh Pant, he is a world-class batter. He is playing (Tests) after a long time. Going ahead, he would be fine," Gambhir concluded. 

Simon Harmer delivered a remarkable all-round bowling performance to claim the Player of the Match award, finishing with eight wickets across the Test, 4 for 30 in the first innings and 4 for 21 in the second. His accuracy, control, and ability to exploit the conditions at Eden Gardens played a decisive role in South Africa’s victory. India, meanwhile, struggled immensely during their second-innings chase of 124, with six of their batters failing to reach double figures. The top and middle order faltered under sustained pressure, leaving the team unable to build any meaningful partnerships.

Only Washington Sundar and Axar Patel showed some resistance, each managing to cross the 20-run mark. Their efforts, however, were not enough to steer India toward what should have been a straightforward target. With the collapse, the modest total of 124 became the lowest score ever successfully defended in a Test match on Indian soil. The defeat highlighted not only South Africa’s disciplined bowling display but also India’s inability to apply themselves in challenging circumstances, ultimately turning a chaseable target into a historic defensive win for the visitors.