Former India captain and legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble has expressed serious concern regarding the performance of the Indian cricket team in the Test format. He analyzed that the humiliating defeats against South Africa in the recent home series, and the previous loss to New Zealand, are not merely isolated results but rather reflections of deep-seated, underlying issues within the team. Kumble believes that there is an urgent need for the team to adopt the right mindset for Test cricket, signaling that it is high time for radical changes to be made.
The source article mentions that in the match held at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Team India was bowled out for just 140 runs in their second innings, resulting in a colossal 408-run defeat against South Africa. This loss marks India’s biggest defeat in Test cricket history in terms of runs. Furthermore, this was India’s fifth loss in the last seven Test matches played on home soil, and the victory allowed South Africa to win a Test series in India after a long period.
Speaking to JioStar, Kumble shared his analysis, stating, “The defeats against South Africa and the 0-3 loss against New Zealand are not just results. They indicate wider problems within the team.” He observed that while the Indian team appeared to be in a strong position on several occasions, they ultimately collapsed. Kumble pointed out that frequent changes to the playing XI, adjustments in the batting order, and player rotation are leading to a lack of consistency in the team. While acknowledging that injuries and loss of form are natural, he emphasized that India must undertake a thorough review of this recent series of defeats.
