Indian coach Gautam Gambhir said the pitch at Arun Jaitley Stadium could have done more for his team after India wrapped up a 2‑0 Test series win over the West Indies.
The win completed India’s sweep and happened on a surface that Gambhir described as slow and not giving enough “carry” to the fast bowlers. He added that while he welcomed spin bowlers, India needs a pitch that works for both the lying spin and the pace attack that includes Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
### A Shift Toward Balanced Surfaces
India’s board has been leaning toward more even pitches, a change spurred by the 3‑0 whitewash at the hands of New Zealand last year. The new strategy paid off in Ahmedabad, where India took the first Test in just three days, winning by an innings and 140 runs. In New Delhi, the innings‑length match demanded over 200 overs of bowling from the Indian side after the follow‑on was enforced on a gentle black‑soil track.
The fast bowlers managed to pick up wickets early, partly thanks to reverse swing on the new ball. Spinners, on the other hand, had to rely on patience and variation, and they together took 13 wickets.
### Gambhir’s Key Takeaways
Gambhir said that the “carry” – the extra bounce and support a pitch gives bowlers – was missing. “We need to keep Test cricket alive, and that starts with good surfaces,” he told reporters after the fifth day.
He also emphasised that when a fast bowler like Bumrah or Siraj plays on a pitch that helps them, the outcome is better. Despite the win, Gambhir noted the pitch’s lack of pace would challenge the upcoming home series against South Africa, where India will face a batsman‑heavy Proteas lineup.
### Saluting West Indies Resilience
A bright spot in the series was the West Indies’ fightback in the second Test. John Campbell and Shivnarine Chanderpaul scored centuries, and Justin Greaves and Jayden Seales produced a 79‑run partnership for the last wicket. Gambhir said “West Indies cricket is vital for the global game, and their comeback gave them confidence.”
### Nurturing Young Talent
Gambhir defended the inclusion of seam‑bowling all‑rounder Nitish Reddy, who hasn’t bowled many overs but is gaining vital experience at home. “Youth needs exposure on Indian pitches,” he said. “If he performs overseas, he deserves to bowl at home.”
### Looking Ahead
With no red‑ball cricket until the trial to Sri Lanka, the next Tests against South Africa will test India’s transition plan. Gambhir stressed that the team needs to give young players more playing time once senior players retire.
He added, “The 15 spots in the national squad are scarce. Co‑operation, character, hunger and work ethic are the criteria we look at. When we select, we want players to feel proud and instantly fulfilled that they earned a place.”
These comments come as India prepares for the home series against South Africa, where pitch conditions will again be a key factor in the battle for Test championship glory.
Source: ianslive
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
