Harbhajan Criticizes India vs South Africa Match Declaring Test Cricket Dead as Vaughan Condemns the ‘Awful’ Pitch
The first Test match between India and South Africa at Eden Gardens has drawn significant criticism from the cricketing community. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh labeled the match a “mockery of Test cricket,” as it appears likely to conclude in just over two days.
Concerns Over Pitch Quality
The match has seen a staggering 15 wickets fall on Day 2, following 11 on the first day. Such low-scoring play has prompted discussions regarding the pitch preparation and overall quality of cricket being displayed. Harbhajan expressed his frustrations on social media, stating, “Test cricket india vs South Africa the game almost over on 2nd day isn’t finished yet. What a mockery of test cricket #RIPTESTCRICKET.”
Adding to the chorus of disapproval, former England captain Michael Vaughan remarked on the “awful pitch in Kolkata,” highlighting the concerns surrounding the playing surface.
Match Summary
- South Africa’s score by stumps on Day 2: 93 for 7.
- India’s first innings score: 62 runs in 22.2 overs.
- South Africa’s first innings total: 159 runs.
- Highest individual score in the match: KL Rahul, with 39 runs off 119 balls.
The pitch has shown exaggerated turn, challenging batters from both teams. India’s Ravindra Jadeja emerged as a standout performer, taking four wickets and leaving South Africa struggling for runs. The team’s captain, Temba Bavuma, managed to remain unbeaten on 29 runs while his partner, Corbin Bosch, had just one run next to his name.
India’s innings collapse came against the bowling brilliance of Simon Harmer, who secured four wickets, benefiting from the pitch conditions. The Indian coaching staff appeared surprised by the rapid deterioration of the pitch. Bowling coach Morne Morkel noted, “Even we didn’t expect a wicket to deteriorate so quickly. It looked like a good wicket initially, but it changed rapidly.”
This Test match has certainly raised vital questions about the future of Test cricket, with players and commentators calling for urgent reevaluation of pitch standards.
