India sealed a 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa on Saturday, marking a moment of redemption for the Gautam Gambhir-coached side after being whitewashed in the preceding Test series. India had suffered a shock defeat in the first Test in Kolkata, failing to chase a modest 124 in the fourth innings.
The second Test in Guwahati ended in an even heavier setback, with the hosts losing by 408 runs - their biggest defeat in Test cricket. It was also India's second Test whitewash under Gambhir's tenure as head coach. The results triggered criticism from several quarters, with some questioning Gambhir's red-ball coaching acumen.
Addressing the media after the ODI series, a visibly frustrated Gambhir defended the team, highlighting that India were forced to play the opening Test without Shubman Gill, who was ruled out after sustaining a neck injury.
