India’s heavy defeat in the Kolkata Test has put the team under pressure as they head into the must-win clash in Guwahati. The loss at a tricky surface at Eden Gardens exposed issues in India’s approach. Chasing just 124, the hosts folded for 93, continuing a worrying pattern of batting failures on turning tracks. The collapse also came amid Shubman Gill’s freak neck injury, which forced him out of the remainder of the game and depleted the batting order from the start.
South Africa’s 30-run win not
only gave them a rare victory in India but also placed the hosts on the brink of a second home series defeat in two years. As the series moves to Guwahati, India know they must regroup quickly and come up with a new plan. The second Test is one final chance to change their fortunes to avoid a whitewash and level the series.
Here are the three changes India should make to win the Guwahati Test:
3. Dhruv Jurel to swap batting position with Washington Sundar
India’s first Test against South Africa saw a clear picture of where their batting order needs fine-tuning, especially at the top. Washington Sundar worked hard for his runs but struggled to anchor the innings at No. 3, scoring 29 off 82 and 31 off 92 across both innings. His strike rate stayed around the mid-30s, and while he showed some fight, he could not shift gears when needed.
On the other hand, Dhruv Jurel looked far more confident despite scoring fewer runs. His 14 off 14 and 13 off 34 may not be big numbers, but his confidence could see him get a promotion. Given his technique and current form, Jurel looks a far better fit at No. 3 than Sundar. India will require someone who can absorb pressure yet keep the scoreboard ticking, and a batting swap could provide the same as they head into the Guwahati Test.
2. Sai Sudharsan comes in for injured Shubman Gill
Indian skipper Shubman Gill’s neck spasm has come as a major setback for India, putting the hosts a batter short and contributing to their collapse in the opening Test. Gill retired hurt after facing just three balls on Day 2 in Kolkata and was later taken to the hospital for a detailed examination. Although he has now been discharged, doctors have advised him to rest and avoid air travel, putting his availability for the Guwahati Test in serious doubt.
With the second Test starting on November 22, India might be forced to look at alternatives at the top. Sai Sudharsan is seen as the most likely replacement, especially with Anil Kumble backing him to slot in if Gill fails to recover in time. Sudharsan has already shown his abilities in his brief international appearances, and this situation could hand him a valuable opportunity to strengthen India’s batting after their 30-run defeat at Eden Gardens.
1. Playing a spinner fewer and bringing in Akash Deep
India can also consider leaving out a spinner, most likely Axar Patel, and bringing in an extra fast bowler such as Akash Deep. Axar had a sub-par outing in Kolkata, where India barely used him with the ball, and with the bat, his contribution was limited to a couple of late boundaries in the final over. Given the conditions and India’s need for more options with the ball, the management could be tempted to strengthen the pace attack.
Shubman Gill had earlier spoken about players like Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna who deserve recognition for their recent form. With Siraj and Bumrah leading the attack, adding another in-form pacer could give India a better chance.
