India’s disastrous outing in the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati has triggered immense criticism towards head coach Gautam Gambhir. As India is at the brink of another home series whitewash,
legendary spinner Anil Kumble questioned Gambhir’s pre-series comments, insisting that the team must back up words with performance.
South Africa entered the Guwahati Test with a 30-run win in Kolkata. The Temba Bavuma-led team once again outplayed India across all departments in the second Test. India’s first innings 201, in reply to South Africa’s 489, displayed the home team's woes. To make matters worse, the visitors continued to pile on the lead, crossing 500 by lunch on Day 4.
Before Day 4 began, Gambhir was seen in an animated huddle, pointing fingers, urging his players to fight. At the same moment, broadcasters replayed a clip from last year where Gambhir declared that he wanted India to score 400 in a day and bat two days if needed. It was this very statement that Kumble replied to with an on-air message.
"You just have to back up those words. You are up against the best side in world cricket today who have won the trophy (WTC). Can't have a better chance of showing your character and winning. If we don't win at least we fight it out and ensure we don't lose. Yeah, those words are fine but you need it back it up with performance as well," said Kumble.
However, India’s repeated batting failures made Kumble’s point relevant. Marco Jansen’s spell, his first five-wicket haul outside South Africa, exposed India’s shot selection. Using bouncers, Jansen dismantled India’s lineup with figures of 6/48. Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj further exploited India’s middle-order.
Some dismissals, such as Sudharsan’s pull and Jaiswal’s edge due to extra bounce, were understandable. But what followed from Dhruv Jurel and Rishabh Pant fell in a reckless bracket. With India already reeling, Jurel chose a needless hook just before tea, top-edging to mid-on. After the break, newly appointed captain Pant walked down the track attempting a lofted shot, only to edge behind. The Proteas handed a target of 549, with India's score standing at 21/1 after nine overs.
