Overview:
While lauding Gambhir’s initial tenure as India’s head coach, Ganguly also highlighted Mohammed Shami’s importance to the Test squad, signalling that the team cannot afford to overlook their frontline pacer on home wickets.
India struggled on a turning Eden Gardens wicket, renewing debates over their approach at home. Sourav Ganguly issued a clear message to head coach Gautam Gambhir after the hosts were bowled out for 93 while chasing 124. The pitch turned sharply from the start, making life difficult for the batters.
Following India’s opening Test loss to South Africa, Sourav Ganguly, head of the Cricket Association of Bengal, told India Today that the surface was far from perfect, but the key lies in balance, sound decision-making, and backing the team’s core abilities.
“There’s no controversy here. The pitch wasn’t ideal, but India should still have managed to score 124. It wasn’t the finest Test wicket. Gambhir mentioned they wanted a surface like this and had actually guided the curator on its preparation,” Ganguly said.
“Yes, that’s correct. Instructions were given, and I’ll reiterate what I mentioned earlier. I have great respect for Gautam. He was spot on for India in England, in ODIs, and in T20Is. We will continue with him for the time being, but we must play on quality pitches.”
While lauding Gambhir’s initial tenure as India’s head coach, Ganguly also highlighted Mohammed Shami’s importance to the Test squad, signalling that the team cannot afford to overlook their frontline pacer on home wickets.
“He needs to have confidence in Bumrah, Siraj, and Shami, as well as the spinners who can turn games in the team’s favour,” he added.