The first Test match between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, ended within eight sessions on November 16. South Africa successfully defended a modest 124-run target in the fourth innings, bowling India out for just 93 runs on a heavily spinning pitch. This victory gave the Proteas a 1-0 lead in the two-match series and marked India's first home Test loss to South Africa in 15 years. Legendary Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh strongly criticized the practice of preparing rank turners, stating that India has "completely destroyed" Test cricket. He pointed out that while such pitches were acceptable when India was winning, recent defeats including a whitewash by New Zealand in 2024 have exposed the flaws in this approach. Harbhajan emphasized that these conditions prevent batsmen and bowlers from developing real skills, as dismissals result from pitch conditions rather than genuine talent.
Harbhajan Singh criticizes pitch preparation strategy
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan Singh expressed that rank turners have been used for many years but nobody questioned the practice because India kept winning matches. He believes this approach prevents cricketers from genuine growth and development. The former spinner argued that when pitches become extremely favorable for spinners, the distinction between skilled bowlers and capable batsmen disappears. Players get dismissed due to pitch conditions rather than bowling skill. Harbhajan stated that India possesses a strong team across all departments including solid batting, quality spinners, and excellent fast bowlers like Bumrah and Siraj. He questioned why such extreme pitches are necessary when the team has the talent to win on balanced surfaces within five days.
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