IND vs SA: Reliance on Makeshift Batting, Ranji Trophy ‘Run Machines’ Overlooked – How Will the Team Shape Up, Coach

The Indian cricket team suffered a humiliating defeat at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, raising concerns over the team’s preparedness ahead of the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati. While the bowlers were largely effective, the responsibility of the collapse fell squarely on the batsmen, previously regarded as world-class performers.

Transition Phase Under Gautam Gambhir
Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir insists the squad is currently in a “transition phase”, as legends like Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Virat Kohli gradually give way to emerging players. These veterans served as anchors for nearly two decades, amassing hundreds of records, some possibly unbreakable.

Finding suitable replacements is no easy task. Despite Gambhir’s assurances, the question remains: Are the next generation of batsmen truly being groomed to fill these giant shoes?

Makeshift Batting Lineup
At one time, India’s batting lineup featured stalwarts from opener to No.7, including Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Pujara, Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja. In contrast, the Kolkata Test saw Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul open, Washington Sundar at No.3, Shubman Gill at No.4, followed by Rishabh Pant, Jadeja, and Dhruv Jurel.

The decision to play Sundar at No.3, a position requiring an opener’s temperament at times, coupled with Gill’s injury, rendered India’s batting makeshift.

Guwahati Test: Gambhir’s Strategy
For the Guwahati Test, batting coach Sitan Shu Kotak has hinted at Sai Sudharsan taking the No.3 spot. As a left-hander, Sudharsan faces scrutiny, having yet to establish himself in this pivotal role. While he scored 87 against the West Indies, the challenge against South Africa’s spinners remains significant.

With Shubman Gill injured, Dhruv Jurel may move to No.4. Though talented, this is the team’s anchor position, making it a risky move.

Ranji Trophy Stars Ignored
Reports indicate Gambhir rejected calls to include Karun Nair, Sarfaraz Khan, and Abhimanyu Easwaran. Despite stellar domestic performances, rising talents from the Ranji Trophy are being overlooked:

• R. Smaran (Karnataka, 22) – 2 centuries in 5 matches, including a double century.
• Sanat Sangwan (Delhi) – 634 runs in 5 matches with 2 centuries.
• Arman Jaffer (Mizoram) – 4 centuries in 6 innings across 4 matches, scoring 717 runs.
• A.R. Mokhade (Vidarbha) – 3 centuries in 5 matches, totaling 577 runs.

If India is indeed in a transition phase, giving these domestic stars a chance is essential. Without integrating fresh talent, the team may secure short-term wins, but in the long term, it risks stagnation and missed opportunities to discover the next Kohli or Rohit.