New Delhi: Team India experienced a significant defeat in the second Test of their multi-format series against South Africa, ultimately losing both Test matches and suffering a clean sweep in the series. This disappointing performance has drawn widespread criticism from fans and cricket analysts alike.
Throughout the two Tests, no Indian batter managed to score a century, contributing to the 0-2 defeat against the Proteas. Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin highlighted concerns regarding the technique of batter Sai Sudharsan.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated, “It usually happens that when something goes wrong, there is always a scapegoat. But I don’t consider it as a healthy team environment. If I know that there are question marks about my place, I will want to fight and prove myself. I felt let down in the sense that there was no fight. If a player is insecure, he cannot play well. When Senuran Muthusamy came on to bowl, Sai Sudharsan didn’t take advantage of any full tosses or short balls for boundaries. He played inside the line and got caught at first slip. There was zero intent in defense. It’s either technical or tactical.”
Ashwin further suggested ways to improve India’s performance in Test cricket. He emphasized the need for domestic players to compete on turning pitches to enhance their skills against spin bowling at the international level.
He remarked, “How we can improve is, many people will have their opinions. I feel first-class cricket needs to be better; players should start playing on turning pitches and solidify their defense against spin. A spin and fast-bowling cupboard needs to be prepared. IPL performances are being considered, but performances in Tests exclusively must also be taken into account.”
