India's shocking 0-2 loss to the Proteas in the recently concluded red-ball series has sent shockwaves through the squad.
In the final match, the visiting team handed India their heaviest Test defeat by runs, against all odds. It was South Africa's initial series triumph in India in 25 years and the host nation's second home series loss in just one year after a 12-year invincible streak.
The winning rhythm built over the last several months has almost disappeared and the careers of multiple squad members - including head coach the coach - now hang in the balance.
Early Optimism Fades Quickly
The emerging side's impressive performance in the UK this summer, under a new captain, indicated a successful handover following the close together departures of key players Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Kohli.
An easy 2-0 triumph over West Indies at the start of the home campaign strengthened that view, until the South Africans came and inflicted a fell blow.
India were a bit unlucky that skipper Gill got injured very early in the first Test and did not participate again in the series. However, that does not excuse or justify the side of the well below standard showing in the two games against South Africa.
A number of star cricketers suffered, and several players eyeing long red-ball careers were exposed as not up to the mark - technically or mentally - for the Test cricket.
A Troubling Pattern
It was the second series sweep at home experienced by India in just more than a year. In 2024, unfancied the Kiwis had secured a staggering 3-0 win which essentially denied the hosts a berth in the Test championship finale.
The fresh failure to South Africa threatens to derail the team's prospects of reaching the final of this edition too.
Previously ranked third in the WTC rankings ahead of the matches, India have fallen to number five. Although nine more Tests are remaining, half of these are against the Aussies. Usually, performing in familiar conditions would be a major plus - even against the mighty Aussies. However the debacles against New Zealand and the Proteas leave little scope for such assurance.
Reasons for the Slump
The national team's frailty in red-ball cricket has been clearly revealed. However, why India have struggled so much in Tests at home lately is still bewildering.
Since the turn of the century, the Indian cricket team were regarded as invincible in red-ball cricket in home conditions. In demanding climates and on pitches that favored spin bowling and benefited their players, the hosts dominated all comers. The odd series defeat, like in the 2012-13 season against the English, was considered an anomaly.
Currently, India look to be easy pickings on home turf.
Against New Zealand in 2024 and South Africa currently, India were beaten at their own game. The surfaces they prepared to suit their strengths failed miserably, as opponents used them more effectively, beating the Indian batters and bowlers when it mattered most.
What Happened?
Certain analysts propose that the Indian team is floundering at home because domestic pitches have been changed from spinning tracks to fast tracks to train the squad to perform better in foreign conditions.
A few mention that the domestic T20 league, in which many overseas players play, has reduced the surprise and difficulty subcontinental pitches would present to them in the past.
Although there is a degree of accuracy in these views, it does not clarify the reason the team's showings on home soil have experienced such a dramatic drop.
Various Shortcomings
The majority of ex-cricketers point to a complex, multi-headed problem, not just a few causes.
Experts and participants have identified several failings post the team's embarrassing defeat to the South Africans: not respecting the foe, inadequate readiness, poor choices, arrogance, regular alterations of the team lineup, and prioritising limited-overs over red-ball cricket.
This was obvious in the displays of the team.
Members like Rishabh Pant and Jaiswal, of whom great things were anticipated, were punished for their nonchalance, while Sudarshan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Jurel - who were aiming to establish their place in the team - were found wanting in skill and mindset, suffering the consequences for their casual attitude.
Just a few - Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep, Siraj and Sundar - fulfilled their ability and standing - but not well enough to win matches.
Leadership Under Fire
The analysis targeted not only the cricketers - the selection panel and coaching staff were also questioned, fuelled by distraught fans and critical former players. Under focus of the scrutiny was mentor Gautam Gambhir.
In his post-series press
