Team India under Gautam Gambhir:
On Wednesday, November 26, the South African team led by Temba Bavuma triumphed in the Guwahati Test, defeating India by 408 runs. While chasing a massive target of 549 runs, the Indian team was bowled out for just 140 runs on the fifth day. This loss stands as India's largest defeat in Test cricket by runs.
South Africa scored 489 runs in the first innings and declared at 260/5 in the second, setting India a daunting target of 549 runs. India only managed 201 runs in their first innings as well.
Notably, this was South Africa's first Test series win in India in 25 years, along with a clean 2-0 sweep. Earlier, Bavuma's team clinched a win by 30 runs in the Kolkata Test to lead the series 1-0.
The performance under Gautam Gambhir has been concerning since assuming the coaching role, as South Africa achieved a series win in India after a quarter-century. This defeat has put India's Test record under his tenure under scrutiny, with their performance significantly declining since Gambhir took charge.
India's Clouded Test Record in Gambhir's Term:
For the first time, India faced a clean sweep in a home series of 3 Tests, against New Zealand in 2024.
For the first time since 2015, India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Subsequently, India lost a home Test series to South Africa after 25 years.
In a press conference, Gambhir stated, "The BCCI will decide my future, but let's not forget the pivotal wins I've provided the team. I am the same coach during whose tenure India triumphantly lifted the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup."
The story doesn't end here, unexpected 'serious' statistics have emerged from India's Gambhir era...
• India has lost a home Test series for two consecutive years. • For the first time in 25 years, India lost 5 Test matches across two seasons. • For the first time in 66 years, India lost 5 Test matches within 7 months. • India endured its largest run-margin loss (408 runs) in Test history.
Overall, during Gambhir's term, India has won only two Test series, both against lower-ranked teams (Bangladesh and West Indies). This significant defeat has raised questions about the team's preparation and approach. Gambhir's coaching phase is regarded as the most challenging since the team hasn't consistently performed well at home.
