Overview
- Manoj Tiwary alleged Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma wanted to continue in Tests but stepped back due to a poor team atmosphere and a manufactured transition narrative.
- Gautam Gambhir defended the Eden Gardens surface, described his side as young, and pointed to batting approach and technique, comments AB de Villiers interpreted as an indirect dig at players.
- Critics questioned India’s tactical choices on a turning track, including reportedly seeking a rank turner and selecting four spinners, with Balwinder Singh Sandhu also urging BCCI accountability for support-staff appointments.
- The 30-run defeat to South Africa in Kolkata ended inside three days and dropped India to fourth in the World Test Championship standings, with South Africa rising to second.
- Offering a contrasting view, Robin Uthappa backed Gambhir and called the Kolkata surface a poor batting wicket, as attention turns to pitch preparation and selection for the Guwahati Test.