Former India captain urges Gambhir to back core bowlers and avoid over-spinning home wickets

Sourav Ganguly has offered a significant piece of advice to head coach Gautam Gambhir after India fell to a disappointing defeat in the Kolkata Test. India struggled badly on a sharply turning Eden Gardens pitch, reigniting debates over their home strategy. Bowled out for just 93 runs while chasing 124, the hosts failed to cope with a surface that turned from the very first session.

In a recent interaction after the loss to South Africa, Ganguly, who heads the Cricket Association of Bengal, said that although the pitch was not ideal, India should still have been able to chase the target. He stressed the importance of maintaining balance, making smart decisions, and trusting the team’s core strengths.

“There is no controversy here. The pitch wasn’t the best, but India should still have chased 124. It wasn’t a top-quality Test wicket. Gambhir had mentioned that they wanted such a surface and had even given instructions to the curator,” Ganguly said.

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“That is correct. Directions were given, and I stand by what I said earlier. I have immense respect for Gautam. He has done exceptionally well for India across formats—whether in England, ODIs, or T20Is. We will continue with him for now, but it is crucial that we play on good wickets.”

Ganguly also praised Gambhir’s early stint as head coach but reminded him of Mohammed Shami’s vital role in the Test setup. He emphasised that India cannot afford to sideline their frontline pacers, even at home.

“He must trust Bumrah, Siraj, and Shami, along with the spinners who are capable of turning matches in India’s favour,” he added.