Opening test between India and South Africa It ended in dramatic fashion at the Eden Gardens, but instead of cricket, he preferred the headlines on the pitch. India’s 30-run loss in three days does not lead to heated reactions, not higher Harbhajan Singh. The former India spinner delivered his blistering criticism of the surface, declaring that such pitches are ‘ruining Test cricket’ and insisting the format be overhauled.
The three-day thriller ends in a shock defeat for India
What promised to be a hotly contested series opener turned into a battle of survival as both teams battled it out on a surface that offered sharp turns, variable bounce and uneven pace from the opening session. South Africa bowled out 159 for 159 on Day 1, a total that India outscored as they were bowled out for 189 in front.
The drama continued as the proteas were bowled out for 153 for 153 in their second innings, setting India a target that looked set for 124. However, the hosts were seriously weakened under tremendous pressure. The Indian batting line-up, unable to adapt to the unpredictability of the pitch, collapsed for 93 in just one session.
South Africa’s 30th not only gave them a 1-0 lead in the two-match series but also marked their first Test win in India in 15 years. Especially Temba Bavuma‘s gritty, unbeaten 55 stood at the match’s only half-century, underscoring just how treacherous batting conditions have become. With 40 wickets falling in less than three days, the questions were particularly delicate, especially given Eden Gardens’ historical reputation for producing balanced Test pitches.
Harbhajan Singh Lambast Eden Gardens pitch after India’s loss
Harbhajan, who famously bowled India to victory at the same venue in 2001, produced a formidable onslaught on the field after the loss. He blamed curators and decision-makers for a succession of extreme surfaces that robbed the game of its essence. The former India star argued that such wickets have eliminated skill and technique, reducing matches to a lottery rather than a battle of temperament and class.
“They have completely destroyed Test cricket. The book rests on Test cricket. He said that Harbhajan’s YouTube channel.
Harbhajan went on to claim that the greatest Indian batsmen would survive on such surfaces. His comments come amid lingering concerns over India’s home ground preparation, particularly the home-grown team’s approach, following their fourth Test defeat at home in the last six matches.
