IND vs SA: What a Test series loss to South Africa would mean for India’s long-term plans?

If India lose the Test series to South Africa, it could impact their future plans, rankings, and World Test Championship hopes. Here’s what’s at stake for India.

Team India (Image Credit: BCCI)

India have lost the first Test match against South Africa at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The batters have struggled to score runs from both teams while the bowlers have somewhat found their way out. While India couldn't chase 124 runs, they lost the match by 30 runs. It was a disappointing loss for the team since the target was extremely low.

Since India were playing with just ten batters as Shubman Gill is ruled out of the Test match, this is not a good situation to be in. A strong partnership could have helped them to win the match. However, frequent wickets turned the game towards South Africa. Marco Jansen and Simon Harmer are in great form as they didn't allow the batters to settle down and form partnerships.

After a fantastic Test series win against West Indies, this performance against South Africa was not something which the fans would have expected. The failure of the batters, the pitch conditions, and Shubman Gill’s injury has been the reasons behind India’s downfall.

Watch Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spell on Day 1 of Eden Test.

What would happen if India lost Test series against South Africa?

India and South Africa will clash in a 2-match Test series which falls under the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. This series is extremely important for India to climb up the points table and maintain a stable position. However, if the home team loses the 2-match series, it will be nothing less than a disaster.

They will lose their third spot in the WTC points table and qualifying for the finals will get difficult. There are some tough series coming for India, so winning against South Africa is extremely important. Moreover, questions will be raised against Gautam Gambhir as well. After his appointment as head coach, India’s Test win arc has gone down drastically.

After losing the home Test series against New Zealand back in October 2024, India went on to lose the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as well. If we dive deep into the stats, Gambhir has lost eight matches, won five and two draws from 15 matches as India’s head coach. The stats aren't looking good for the coach.

Apart from this, India’s team selection will also be questioned since they went ahead with four spinners while the pitch is clearly in favour of pacers. Not understanding the home pitch is a huge matter of concern and has exposed India completely. Considering all the points, it will be extremely crucial for the Men in Blue to win the Test series or look to level it.

Read Also: One more century and Shubman Gill will break Virat Kohli's this record

How to watch the India vs South Africa, 2nd Test?

Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs South Africa, 2nd Test from November 22 online on JioHotstar, accessible via OTTplay Premium.

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