NEW DELHI: India head coach Gautam Gambhir took full responsibility following the team's 0-2 Test series defeat against South Africa at home, saying, "Blame lies with everyone and starts with me."
Gambhir highlighted the need for improvement, particularly in the batting department. Reflecting on India's second Test collapse in Guwahati, he noted while dressing the press conferenece, "We need to play better. From 95/1 to 122/7 is not acceptable."
India suffered heavy defeats in both matches of the series, raising concerns over the team’s performance at home and their struggle against spin, even on familiar pitches.
Indian team, which seemed lacking in both skills and resolve, surrendered to its biggest defeat in terms of runs, losing the second Test to South Africa by a whopping 408 runs, giving the visitors their first series triumph in the country in 25 years.
This was the second time in a space of mere 13 months that India ended up whitewashed at home, severely denting their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship.
Under Gambhir, India have now lost five Tests against New Zealand and South Africa at home. It is also the first time in 66 years that the team has lost 5 Tests in a space of seven months.
Gambhir opened up on his role and the future of Indian Test cricket, saying, "Up to BCCI to decide my future. But I am the same guy who got you results in England and was coach for the Champions Trophy."
Gambhir emphasised the need to prioritize Test cricket and foster a collective approach, adding, "Everyone needs to be a stakeholder. We need a collective effort to make it happen."
Highlighting his vision for building a resilient Test squad, he stated, "You don't need the most flamboyant and talented cricketers to play Test cricket. We need tough characters with limited skills."
