India`s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has expressed a desire for domestic Test pitches to offer greater bounce and carry. His comments came after India secured a seven-wicket victory in the second Test against West Indies, a match where their bowlers endured 200 overs in the field.
Following a 3-0 defeat to New Zealand last year, India has shifted its approach from preparing spin-friendly “square turners” to creating more balanced pitches that provide an even contest between bat and ball. While India posted substantial first-innings totals in both recent Tests against West Indies, and their bowlers found significant assistance from the Ahmedabad pitch in the first Test, they faced a considerable challenge to take all 20 wickets in Delhi, especially after enforcing the follow-on.
“I believe we could have had a superior wicket here,” Gambhir stated in his post-match press conference. “Although we achieved the desired result on day five, it`s crucial that edges carry to the fielders. Fast bowlers also need some assistance. We often discuss the vital role of spinners, but with two high-quality fast bowlers in our squad, we want them to remain competitive too.”
He further elaborated, “While less turn is acceptable, carry is essential. The lack of carry we observed was somewhat concerning. Moving forward, I hope we can achieve better wickets for Test cricket, as we all share the responsibility of sustaining the format. In my opinion, the primary step to keeping Test cricket vibrant is playing on excellent surfaces.”
Gambhir also noted that West Indies` resilient batting performance in Delhi was a positive sign for their future, especially considering their recent history of struggling with low scores before this Test.
“I`ve always maintained that global cricket requires West Indian cricket,” Gambhir commented, highlighting its significance. “It was truly pleasing to witness their fighting spirit. Clearly, they are a young, inexperienced team undergoing many changes, but their tenacious fight in the second innings will undoubtedly boost their confidence.”
With the West Indies series concluded, the Indian team is now set to tour Australia for white-ball matches, followed by a comprehensive home series against South Africa featuring Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. Recognizing that some players constantly switch between formats while others are primarily part of the red-ball squad, Gambhir stressed the importance of these Test specialists preparing for upcoming series by participating in domestic cricket.
“The most beneficial aspect of the West Indies series, in my opinion, was how the Test-focused players prepared beforehand,” he stated. “Playing the India A game against Australia A was incredibly important, and similarly, participating in the Ranji Trophy before the South Africa series will be just as crucial.”
He added, “I believe this group of players has excelled in this regard. Their thorough preparation for the Test series is evident in the results. While it can be challenging at times, professionalism means making the most of every day, especially given the rapid transitions between formats.”
“Specifically, moving from here to One-Day, then T20, and then back to Test cricket after just four days is demanding. However, for those players exclusively involved in Test cricket, I believe it`s vital to prepare by playing domestic matches rather than solely focusing on skill development at the NCA. The more they engage in domestic games before Test series, the better prepared they will be.”
The victory against West Indies further solidified Shubman Gill`s impressive beginning as Test captain, building on his successful 2-2 draw in England during his inaugural series. Gill has also recently been named the ODI captain.
“No one has granted him a favor by appointing him Test or ODI captain,” Gambhir asserted. “I believe he fully deserves these roles. He has worked tirelessly and meets all the criteria. As a coach, I couldn`t ask for more from someone who speaks and acts appropriately, demonstrates strong work ethic and commitment, gives his all, and is always the first on the field.”
“I understand the immense challenge he faces. I`ve often said that the England Test series was likely the toughest: five Test matches spread over two to two-and-a-half months against a formidable English team with an intimidating batting lineup, all with an inexperienced Indian side. What more difficult situation could he have encountered?”
“However, his self-management, and more crucially, his leadership of the team, along with the team`s response to him, have been exemplary. While we often focus solely on the captain, the team`s reaction to his leadership is equally vital. The entire dressing room deserves commendation.”
“Indeed, respect is earned through scoring runs, but it`s also gained by speaking and acting correctly. I believe actions speak louder than mere performance. Both he and the team have performed exceptionally.”
