India's shocking 0-2 series loss to South Africa in the recently concluded Test series has plunged the side into crisis.
In the final match, the visiting team inflicted upon India their heaviest defeat in terms of runs, against all odds. It marked the Proteas' initial series triumph in the subcontinent in 25 years and India's second home series loss in just a year after a decade-plus without a home loss.
The winning rhythm established in the previous half-year has largely dissipated and the futures of multiple squad members - as well as head coach the coach - now hang in the balance.
Initial Hope Fades Quickly
The young team's strong showing in the UK this summer, under a new captain, suggested a smooth transition following the near-simultaneous retirements of veterans R Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Kohli.
A straightforward 2-0 triumph over West Indies at the start of the home campaign enhanced that perception, till the Proteas came and inflicted a devastating defeat.
India were somewhat unlucky that captain Gill got injured early on in the first Test and took no further part in the series. But that does not excuse or justify the side of the terribly sub-par display in the two games against South Africa.
Several established players were damaged, and several players eyeing long red-ball careers were shown as not up to the mark - in skill or mindset - for the format.
Concerning History
This represented the second series sweep on home soil endured by India in just a year. In 2024, little-fancied the Kiwis had pulled off a remarkable 3-0 win which practically cost the hosts a place in the Test championship finale.
The latest loss to South Africa could damage India's prospects of reaching the final of this season as well.
After being third in the Test championship standings before the series, the side have dropped to the fifth spot. Even though nine additional matches are remaining, five of these are against the Aussies. Ordinarily, performing in familiar conditions would be a major plus - even against the mighty Aussies. Yet the disasters against the Kiwis and South Africa provide no basis for that confidence.
Causes of the Fall
India's frailty in the longer format has been clearly revealed. That said, the reason India have fared so badly in Test matches at home recently is still bewildering.
In the 21st century, the Indian cricket team were seen as unbeatable in Test cricket in home conditions. In demanding climates and on pitches that favored spin bowling and suited their batsmen and bowlers, India brooked no opposition. A rare failure, such as in 2012-13 against the English, was seen as an anomaly.
Currently, India look to be beatable at home.
Facing the Kiwis in 2024 and South Africa currently, the home side were beaten at their own game. The tracks they developed to favor their game backfired spectacularly, as the opposition used them more effectively, surpassing the Indian batters and bowlers when it mattered most.
What's Gone Wrong?
A few experts argue that India is floundering at home because local wickets have been modified from turners to fast tracks to train the squad to succeed overseas.
A few mention that the IPL, in which many overseas players participate, has reduced the unfamiliarity and challenge home wickets would challenge them with in the past.
Even though there is a degree of accuracy in these views, it still does not explain the reason India's performances on home soil have witnessed such a dramatic drop.
Multiple Failings
Most former players point to a complicated issue, not just one or two factors.
Critics and players have highlighted several failings following the team's embarrassing defeat to the Proteas: underestimating the opposition, poor preparation, poor choices, arrogance, regular alterations of the team lineup, and emphasizing white-ball over red-ball cricket.
This was clear in the showings of the team.
Cricketers such as Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal, of whom great things were anticipated, paid for their nonchalance, while Sai Sudarshan, Reddy, and Dhruv Jurel - who were looking to cement their place in the team - came up short in technique and temperament, facing the fallout for their nonchalant approach.
Just a few - Jadeja, Bumrah, Kuldeep, Siraj and Sundar - fulfilled their ability and standing - but inadequately to win matches.
Leadership Under Fire
The review didn't spare not only the cricketers - team selectors and coaching staff were also under fire, spurred on by upset followers and vocal past stars. In the spotlight of the scrutiny was team coach Gambhir.
In his post-series press
