There has been significant debate surrounding the pitch used for the first Test between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens, especially after Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that the team had indeed asked for a surface that offered spin. While the decision drew criticism from several quarters, former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar backed the call, insisting that the pitch was not a vicious turner, as some suggested.
India went on to lose the first Test against South Africa by 30 runs in Kolkata as South African spinner Simon Harmer proved to be the difference-maker, claiming eight wickets across both innings. The Indian batters struggled to counter the turn generated by the Proteas bowlers, ultimately falling short in a match they were expected to control.
After the match, the Indian head coach further clarified his views on the pitch, stating that the 123-run target set by South Africa was certainly chaseable. He admitted that the Indian batters did not apply themselves, failing to show the necessary discipline and temperament required in such conditions. Their inability to defend properly and play with patience, he said, led to wickets falling cheaply and ultimately cost India the game.