Swaraat / Swaraat Editors Desk
It remains a mystery why Washington Sundar wasn’t bowled more, especially when South Africa’s victory was sealed by off-spinner Simon Harmer, who was named Man of the Match — leaving many observers baffled. Another factor which hurt India badly was Shubman Gill retiring hurt, which could have made all the difference, had he batted in both the innings fully.
Not sure what wrath Gambhir earned from either side of ideological spectrum that he becomes the scapegoat of any defeat. India fielded the best possible eleven for the first test against South Africa but ended up on the losing side chasing a meagre 123. In the post-match interview Gambhir even said India got the pitch which they had asked for. Indian team curated by the management is not invincible, yet they played well in England to draw the series.
Promoted to No. 3, Washington played a pivotal role as a sheath anchor, scoring 29 and 31 in a low-scoring match. But his repertoire in bowling department was underutilised. The two quick wickets at the top started the collapse that eventually led to lose the match by 30 runs.
Jurel should have continued to keep wickets in the second innings too, Pant as a Stand in Skipper kept the wickets though he is yet to find his feet after the injury he sustained in the England series. This is something for the management to contemplate before the next and final match of the series.
Temba Bavuma’s 55 runs in second innings was a gem and the only half-century of the match on a pitch where everyone else struggled to find their timing and shots correct. South Africa stamped their authority as World Test Champion by winning a test match in India after 15 years. Simon Harmer’s inclusion gave a shot in the arm for South African team who were heavily dependent on the spin services of Keshav Maharaj.
Guwahati might end the dry run for Indian cricket team at home and hopefully they will find the winning ways in second test. Let’s cheer and bleed blue for our team to make strides in the WTC table and be one of the teams to play in the finals.