 "Gautam Gambhir has now lost four out of his last six Tests at home as coach. AP")
Gautam Gambhir’s decision making as the head coach is under fire on social media as South Africa beat India by 30 runs in the opening Test of the series on Sunday to register their first win on Indian soil since 2010.
Chasing 124 in the second innings, India were bowled out for a paltry 93 with off-spinner Simon Harmer doing the majority of the damage with four wickets.
With this loss, India have now lost four of their last six home Tests under Gambhir and fans want accountability. The two wins too came against lower-ranked West Indies.
Temba Bavuma masterclass
Earlier in the day, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma dished out a batting masterclass on a treacherous Eden Gardens surface. Bavuma remained unbeaten on 55 off 136 deliveries to steer South Africa to a respectable total of 153 before they were bowled out. Bavuma’s was the only half-century in the game.
Thanks to their 30-run first innings lead, India needed to chase only 124 to win the match. However, Proteas bowling attack led by Harmer managed to defend South Africa’s lowest target since 1994 when they defended 117 against Australia in Sydney.
This is also now the lowest target that India have failed to chase successfully in a home Test and second lowest in all Tests after 120 against West Indies in Bridgetown in 1997.
With this win Bavuma now has 10 wins and a draw in his 11 matches as South Africa skipper.