Gautam Gambhir Defends Indian Pitches, Urges Overseas Teams to Improve Against Spinners

Head coach of the Indian cricket team Gautam Gambhir has criticized those who complain about Indian pitches ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh. Indian pitches are often described as spin-friendly, with spinners making an impact from the very first day. Recent scrutiny has intensified as some former international cricketers have claimed that these pitches have significantly contributed to India’s success at home, particularly when matches end quickly. However, similar scenarios in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) countries don’t attract the same level of criticism.

Gambhir did not hold back in his response to these critiques. He pointed out that such criticisms are not applied equally to pitches in other countries. He said, “The thing is when you go to places like Australia, England, South Africa, the Test gets over in two and a half days, then there is not so much talk. But when the opposition team comes to India and if the Test match gets over in two and a half days, we keep saying that there is too much help for the spinners”.

He added that it’s unrealistic to expect a pitch to guarantee a five-day Test match. “If there is too much help for the fast bowler, then no one talks about it. So, I think we have to be fair and clear on that front. I don’t think anywhere in the world where you can prepare a wicket where you say that this Test will go on for five days.”

Gambhir also said that the a need for players to adapt to different conditions. “You got to have quality if you need a good Test. But you should be able to play against spin on a turning track and you should be able to play good fast bowling on a green track.”

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He concluded by advising overseas players to focus on improving their skills rather than complaining about pitch conditions. Gambhir “So, I think this conversation or debate should end where people say that in India, when Test matches get over in two and a half days, it’s too much support for spinners. The opposition needs to learn how to play against spinners rather than talk about changing the nature of the pitch.”