Former great urges India to shift home Tests abroad to 'avoid embarrassment'

Former India cricketer Kris Srikkanth has expressed deep concern over the national team’s declining dominance in home Tests, suggesting that India should stop hosting Test matches in the country to avoid repeated humiliation. His remarks come in the wake of India’s crushing series defeat to South Africa.

Since Gautam Gambhir took over as head coach last year, India have won Test series only against Bangladesh and the West Indies. In contrast, New Zealand swept India 3–0 last year, and South Africa have now delivered another emphatic blow.

India’s latest collapse came during a massive 549-run chase in the second Test. Beginning the final day with eight wickets in hand, the hosts folded for just 140, suffering their largest defeat by runs in Test history. After being outplayed on a tricky surface in Kolkata, India were expected to bounce back in Guwahati. But South Africa dominated again—posting 489, restricting India to 201, then declaring at 260/5 as the pitch turned. India’s response fizzled out quickly, lasting less than two full sessions.

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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said India’s home record has grown alarmingly weak. According to him, a radical solution is needed: shift India’s “home” Tests to neutral venues.

“I have a strong recommendation for India,” he said. “We should play our Test matches in England. Stadiums are packed there, fans can plan trips easily, and India have performed well in those conditions before. No more home Tests in India.”

With senior stars like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin now retired, India have begun a new World Test Championship cycle under a young captain, Shubman Gill, and head coach Gambhir. On their recent tour of England for the five-match Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, India managed a dramatic 2–2 draw, thanks in part to Mohammed Siraj’s heroics on the final day.