India suffered a massive 408-run defeat against South Africa in the Guwahati Test, resulting in a 2-0 series whitewash. After the loss, captain Rishabh Pant and head coach Gautam Gambhir are facing intense criticism.
For the first time in 25 years, India lost a Test series on home soil. In the second innings, the team folded for just 140 runs. Disappointed fans inside the stadium even chanted “Gambhir Haye Haye.”
This is India’s biggest home Test defeat ever. Previously, India had endured heavy losses — 342 runs to Australia in 2004, 341 runs to Pakistan in 2006, 337 runs to Australia in 2007, and a 333-run defeat to Australia in 2017.
Experts say the problem isn’t the opposition playing exceptionally well, but India’s flawed planning, unclear selection policies, and weak leadership. Former players argue that domestic performers continue to be ignored and the batting order has been illogical.
Irfan Pathan criticised India’s lack of technique and patience. Harsha Bhogle said India’s home dominance appears to be fading. Kevin Pietersen also expressed surprise at India’s decline in Test cricket.
In the first innings of the Guwahati Test, only Kuldeep Yadav — primarily a bowler — managed to face 100 balls. With back-to-back defeats, questions are growing around Gambhir’s strategy.
Iceland Cricket even mocked Gambhir online, stating he would not be considered for their coaching role. Gambhir has now become the first Indian coach to oversee two consecutive home Test series whitewashes. Under his tenure, India have lost 10 out of 18 Tests.
YouTuber Sushant Mehta demanded Gambhir’s resignation, calling this the worst phase in India’s Test cricket history.
However, the BCCI has backed the coaching staff and selectors despite widespread criticism.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar is also under fire for failing to balance experience and form.
Rishabh Pant Under Heavy Fire
Stand-in captain Rishabh Pant, who replaced the injured Shubman Gill, is being criticised for defensive field placements, poor bowling rotations, and an irresponsible shot. Anil Kumble said Pant didn’t allow new batters to settle, while Dinesh Karthik questioned why he underused Nitish Reddy.
Pant’s stump-mic moment also went viral where he shouted at his bowlers: “This is not how you treat Test cricket!”
Former coach Ravi Shastri said constant chopping and changing within the squad destroys player confidence — the same reason India were whitewashed by New Zealand last year.
Fans called the Guwahati pitch an “airport runway,” while critics argued it offered no bounce, spin, or swing.